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II 




/ 



TRIBUTE OF AFFECTION 



TO THE MEMORY OF 



REV. JOHN JENNINGS, 



vv 



BY 

HIS DAUGHTER. 






3 ' 

O ,5 



BOSTON: 

GOULD & LINCOLN, 

59 Washington Street 
1873- 



^^of^ 



« t c 



BOSTON : 

PRINTED BY KAND, AVERY, & CO., 
NO. 3, CORNHILL. 






p4 







TO 



MY FATHER'S BELOVED WIFE, 



WHO HAS MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO OFFER 



%^XB ||l^m0rml 



TO HIS FRIENDS, 



IT IS DEDICATED, 



A daughter's dutiful affection. 



BLEST are the dead who die in thee, O Lord ! 
Henceforth they rest, from all their labors free 
In that sweet rest they find the full reward 

For trials borne through patient faith in thee. 
The Lord, " He giveth his beloved sleep," — 

They rest in hope, relieved from earthly care ; 
And though for them that sleep in death Ave weep, 
They sleep, that where He is they may be there. 

The Father's house hath many mansions fair ; 
And there did Christ for them a place prepare, 
Where they may rest, and know no more decay ; 
For sorrow, crying, pain, have passed away. 
No night is there, and yet no need of sun ; 
For God gives light, — the Lord and light are one : 
No hunger there, nor thirst, nor any heat ; 
No tear-dimmed eyes, no weary, erring feet. 

The river, pure, of life, as crystal clear, 
Forth from the throne is flowing ever near, 
Their thirst to slake ; and, near, the tree of life, 
Whose leaves do heal the wounds of earthly strife ; 
Whose fruit, most fair, eternal life doth give, 
That weary, earth-sick souls may eat and live ; 
The Lamb doth lead their feet, and calm their fears, 
And God himself doth wipe away their tears. 

Before the throne they serve him day and night. 
In temple fair, whereof the Lamb 's the light; 
With golden harps, amid the white-robed throng, 
They raise the glorious, never-ending song : 
" Salvation to the Lamb, who- once was slain. 
Salvation to the Lamb who lives again ; 
Salvation to our God upon the throne, 
Salvation to the triune God alone." 




PREFACE. 




HE following sketch of the life and labors of 
Rev. John Jennings is offered by his daughter 
c to his many friends. It will have little in- 
terest for others ; and, w^here commendation 
is unsought, criticism will be kindly withheld. 

He was a man greatly beloved ; and a single 
motive has governed the writer in preparing this 
memorial, — the desire to draw a truthful portrait, 
that those who knew him may remember the virtues 
which made him thus beloved. 

To any who think the work might have been 
better done by abler hands, it is suggested that 
none could know him better than his eldest 
daughter, with whom, from her earliest years, her 
father's sympathy was perfect, and to whom more 
of his inmost heart was revealed than to any other, 
save only his chosen companion. 



6 Preface. 

Lest undue allowance be made for a daughter's 
partiality, the writer has selected some passages 
which show the estimation in which he was held by 
others whose opinion is worthy of high regard. 

The selections from sermons and addresses are 
intended to be samples of his ordinary efforts. 
They are taken from his writings at different 
periods of life, in the belief that the gradual expan- 
sion of his mind and heart may thus be traced 
throughout his ministerial life, which may be said 
to have been like the shining light which " shineth 
more and more unto the perfect day." 

This sorrowful, pleasant task has been accom- 
plished under the pressure of many duties, with a 
pen unused to literary labor. 

Conscious of its incompleteness, the writer yet 
hopes the little volume may prove a blessing to 
some, and earnestly begs each "reader to offer the 
prayer that the seed which the faithful pastor sowed, 
cheerfully and patiently, though often in weakness 
and weariness, may spring up, and bear fruit a 
hundred-fold, to the praise of the glory of the great 
Redeemer's grace. 

ISABELLA. GRAHAME PARKER. 



MEMORIAL. 




I. 



Y father was born on the 8th of December, 
1809, in Danbury, Conn. The farmhouse 
of his father stood on a noble hill, over- 
looking a landscape of exquisite beauty. 
A belt of majestic hills encircled a lovely 
valley, where a little stream flowed through cul- 
tivated fields and fragrant meadows. The house 
had the lean-to and well-sweep so common in rural 
New England ; while the grand overshadowing 
maples, the large and welf-filled barn, the pleasant 
flower-beds, and well-kept garden, gave it the air 
of comfort and neatness so characteristic of the 
quiet hemes of New-England farmers. 

Doubtless the lovely prospect daily before him 
awakened, even in childhood, that warm love of 
Nature which led my father, in later years, to seek 
enjoyment in her beauties, repose in her solitudes, 



8 Memorial of 

and comfort in her quiet influences, and, more 
than all, to draw lessons of wisdom for others from 
her varying expression of the Creator's power and 
love and care. 

His grandfather, Samuel Jennings, came from 
England to this country with two brothers, and 
became a large landholder in Virginia. Hearing, 
one day, the fearful war-cry of the Indians, he 
rushed into his house, caught up his little son 
(without even a covering for its head), and, bidding 
his wife follow, gained the summit of a hill, only to 
see the flames destroy his dweUing, and to know 
himself robbed of all but wife and child, whom he 
must save by flight. 

After weeks of weary journeying, the fugitives 
found refuge and a home in Danbury, where their 
son grew to manhood. 

This son, my grandfather, Samuel Jennings, 
married Sarah Corbin of Danbury, with whom he 
lived, respected and beloved- by all who knew him, 
until his death, in 1814, two hours after the birth 
of his youngest child. 

My father, the seventh in the family of nine 
children, was at this time four years old, — so young 
as to remember little of his father except his death. 
The distress of his mother in this peculiarly severe 
affliction was overwhelming. 

Often, during the months that followed, would 
she sit in the doorway with her babe in her arms, 
looking toward her husband's grave in the neigh- 



Rev. yohn yennings. 9 

boring burial-ground, weeping bitterly, and, as she 
afterwards said, murmuring at the dealings of God. 

But none who knew her need be told how this 
heavy chastening yielded the peaceable fruits of 
righteousness. In after-years she loved to tell how 
her heart was softened and renewed, and she 
learned "to kiss the rod and the hand of Him that 
appointed it." 

The influence of such a mother, naturally lovely, 
and purified by sorrow, greatly moulded the char- 
acter of her children. She became an honored 
member of the Second Baptist Church in Dan- 
bury, and attended the sabbath service and social 
prayer-meetings with her children, in the face of 
difficulties which would furnish ample excuse for 
remaining at home. Her joy and faith gave her 
abundant strength. 

In a recent history of that church, the writer 
describes the meeting-house in which they wor- 
shipped. 

The building was twenty-four feet square, with gal- 
leries. Its architecture and interior arrangement were 
of rough and primitive style. It was unadorned by a 
steeple, and unfurnished with permanent seats. Loose 
boards were throw^n down to make a floor. These also 
formed the foundation of the gallery, which was destitute 
of breast-work or stairs ; the ascent being made by means 
of a ladder. The seats were made by placing boards on 
logs and stones. The pulpit was built of oak boards, 
and elevated two steps above the main floor. 



lo Memorial of 

In this rude structure, that God whose chosen temple 
is the contrite heart met and blessed the fathers. Its 
plainness was adorned by his glorious presence ; and 
hereafter it shall be seen that this and that man was born 
there. 

The same writer speaks of certain improvements 
made in the building in 1807 : — 

The side-walls were plastered, and a railing and stairs 
made for the galleries, and the floors were nailed down. 
A better pulpit was constructed ; and new seats were 
introduced, with backs to them. 

This description of the house in which my father 
worshipped in his boyhood will explain the interest 
he felt, as a pastor, in the erection of new houses of 
worship. In four successive pastorates, and largely 
through his own zeal and efforts, a new church was 
built, each more commodious and beautiful than 
the last. 

He early formed habits of industry and activity, 
which characterized him through life. At the age 
of twelve his eldest brother took charge of him, and 
for two years employed him upon his farm. He 
often spoke of those two years as the happiest of 
his youth. He loved this brother with that ardent 
affection which was so prominent a trait in his 
character, and which shone most brightly in all his 
social, pastoral, and domestic relations, to the latest 
day of his life. 



Rev. John Jennings, 1 1 

In his fourteenth year he gave his heart, in all 
its youthful enthusiasm, to that Redeemer whom 
he from that time regarded and held up to others 
as the "chiefest among ten thousand, and altogeth- 
er lovely." 

The writer above alluded to, in speaking of him, 
says, — 

Brother John Jennings seemed to have been born 
into the ministry with his new birth in Christ. He 
was licensed to preach on the 17th June, 1826. The 
Church cherishes him as one of her most honored 
sons. 

One more extract from the same book is inserted 
here : — 

Though the dwelling of the stranger may cover the 
place occupied by our first temple, it can never become 
common ground to us. There is a small stream, like 
Jordan in Judaea, running through the meadows, near to 
where the building stood, witnessing to the perpetuity of 
nature amid the decay of the works of man. 

On the bank of this pleasant stream, on the 31st 
of August, 1823, there was a scene of unwonted 
interest. My father stood, like that other John 
by Jordan of old, and, having offered himself for 
baptism, lifted his voice in a few earnest words to 
those who had assembled to witness the ordinance. 
He spoke of his faith and hope and joy, and most 
touchingly appealed to them to come and share the 



1 2 Memorial, 

same obedience and the same blessedness. All 
hearts were melted. Many who were present have 
said that he never in his life preached a mightier 
sermon, or one followed by more blessed -results. 

He was then so small, that the pastor. Rev. Mr. 
Benedict, held him in his arms as he administered 
the rite. 

From this time he preached the gospel unceas- 
ingly in the world by his blameless and unselfish 
life, and in the social prayer-meetings by his earnest 
appeals, which were listened to with unvarying 
interest ; for the wisdom in winning souls to 
Christ, the powerful and persuasive eloquence 
springing from that heartfelt earnestness which 
marked his later preaching, already began to ap- 
pear even in the boy, so small of stature, that, when 
he spoke, he stood upon a stool, that all might see 
and hear him. A general favorite, he gained great 
power by that personal interest in his subject and 
in his hearers which was the crowning excellence 
of his ministry. 




'^^^mXr' 







II. 



iCnROM this time the Christian boy felt in- 




"^^H creasingly the necessity laid upon him to 
enter the ministry. His mother withheld 
her consent for a time ; for it seemed to 
her utterly impossible to obtain the means 
for his education. For this reason, he was ap- 
prenticed to a worthy artisan of Danbiiry. Here 
he remained for three years, faithfully performing 
all his duties, and attaining to excellence in his 
trade, but all the time hearing the inward voice, 
" Woe is me if I preach not the gospel," and 
working with his Bible, Latin Grammar, or some 
other book, open before him. His younger sister 
well remembers the Saturday evenings, when, com- 
ing home to pass the Sabbath, he would take his 
mother aside, and beg her, with tears, to consent 
to his commencing a course of study, and to trust 
the Lord to provide. 

But her prudence held his enthusiasm in check, 

2 



14 Memorial of 

until at length the way was opened for him to study 
with his brother-in-law, Rev. Asa Bronson. 

With the hearty good-will of his excellent em- 
ployer, and his mother's blessing, he began his 
studies. After some months of study under Mr. 
Bronson, he entered the academy at Sharon, 
Conn., as a student, and at the same time preached 
to a small church just able to give him his daily 
bread for supplying their pulpit. His tuition was 
given him by the principal, his warm friend. 

A little time-worn journal has been found since 
his death, — carefully preserved among his neatly- 
arranged papers, — of whose existence no one knew 
but himself, and which he doubtless kept in re- 
membrance of that interesting period. There is a 
careful record of his thoughts and feelings from day 
to day, of the texts from which he preached Sab- 
bath days and week-day evenings, and of his daily 
studies and duties. 

On Dec. 8, 1827, I find this entry : — 

This being my nineteenth birthday, I am led to 
meditate on the rapid flight of time, and to review the 
scenes of the past year, and trace the finger of God 
through the various windings of my life. Oh, how thank- 
ful ought I to be for the deliverances God has wrought 
for me ! 

He here alludes to his recovery from typhoid- 
fever, which had brought him very near death, and 



Rev. John yennings. 15 

to his relief from doubt and discouragement in re- 
gard to his studies. 

It is recorded in the journal, that, in 1828, he 
preached one hundred and thirty-three times, and 
attended two hundred and five prayer-meetings. 
He remained in Sharon more than two years. 
He was urged to continue preaching without 
further preparation, by many of the people, who 
thought " he had education enough." But his own 
earnest longings for a better preparation for the 
Master's service were not in vain. In God's good 
providence, he met at the Association in Amenia 
(October, 1828) Rev. Barnas Sears, then pastor of 
the First Church in Hartford, who treated him with 
characteristic kindness. The acquaintance then 
formed had an • important bearing on his future 
course, and led to his visiting Hartford, where warm 
hearts opened to receive him, and generous hands 
enabled him to continue his studies. Through life 
he remembered gratefully those who thus cheered 
and aided him. 

In a letter to his future wife. Miss S. C. Keyes of 
Salisbury, Conn., dated Nov. 8, 1828, he writes, — 

I am overwhelmed with the magnitude of this sub- 
ject, and frequently lose myself, while, in imagination, I 
walk about the temple of God, and survey its glories. 
Oh, how unworthy are we to be employed under such a 
King, and in so noble a cause ! For myself, I am more 
and more impressed with the importance of the work which 
is before me. Oh that I might be the humble instrument, 



1 6 Memorial of 

in God's hands, of good to the world ! But I feel the 
need of more humility and devotedness to God, more of 
the spirit of my Master. The subject of obtaining more 
education, and thus extending my influence, lies with 
peculiar weight on my mind, and for weeks it has not 
been absent from my thoughts. I look back to the week 
I spent in Hartford with pleasing emotions. I think it 
will prove of great benefit to me ; and, by the grace of 
God, I trust good was done to others. I remember with 
peculiar gratitutJe the Sabbath evening before I left. 
Brother Sears gave out an appointment for me to preach. 
I thought I could not preach again, having done so twice 
before. I went to the church at the sound of the bell, 
and, to my astonishment, found it unusually crowded. I 
felt perfectly empty and barren. I knew that great con- 
gregation had collected to hear me. I told Brother 
Sears I could not preach. He reminded me of my only 
trust. I sent up a petition to God for the assistance of 
his Spirit, and preached from Rev. xx. ii, 12. As I 
commenced, the house w^as silent as death ; and, as I 
proceeded, the attention of the assembly, together with 
the interest of the subject, raised my feelings to such a 
pitch as they never reached before. My emotion was 
soon increased by the sobs and sighs which I heard in 
every quarter of the house. We were constrained to 
exclaim, " How dreadful is this place ! " Brother Sears 
and the brethren there took a deep interest in my case, 
and are anxious that I should go on with my course of 
study. Some of the good people in Sharon think that I 
know enough ; but my daily experience contradicts such 
a conclusion. My prayer is, " Lord, what wilt thou have 
me to do ? '' 



Rev. yohn Jennings. i 7 

In another letter, dated Nov. 29, 1828, he 
writes, — 

If Christ has done so much for us, how can we do 
too much for him ? Let us therefore put on the whole 
armor of God, and be determined not to give over until 
the battle is fought, and the victory obtained. But how 
much of the grace of God do we need to qualify us for 
our work ! We want a great deal of humility, patience, 
and perseverance. The station we expect to take is replete 
with eternal interest. When I realize how many souls 
are, as it were, hanging upon my lips, and that T must 
meet every individual who has heard or may hear me 
preach, at the bar of God, it is an overwhelming reflec- 
tion, and leads me to exclaim, " Who is sufficient for these 
things ? " 

It will be remembered that at this time he was 
only nineteen years of age. 
2* 





III. 




Y the advice of his Hartford friends, my 
father entered the academy at South Read- 
ing, preparatory to a course of theological 
study. He arrived there March 27, 1829, 
with just twenty-five cents in his pocket, 
and a change of linen in his bag. Throughout 
his studies there, for two years and a half, and 
three years at Newton, there is a record of his 
preaching with scarcely an unemployed Sabbath, 
and often during the week. By the aid of those to 
whom he thus ministered in spiritual things, he 
pressed forward through the appointed course of 
study. Often discouraged, and almost ready to 
relinquish his cherished hope, as often would relief 
arise from some quarter. This period of study was 
a pleasant spot in his memory. Through life he 
cherished the warmest affection for his associates 
in South Reading and Newton, most of whom, like 
himself, struggled with poverty, and endured pri- 
vations, in order to become workmen that needed 



Rev. yohn yennings. 19 

not to be ashamed. He would often recall, for my 
entertainment when a child, the scenes and inci- 
dents of his student-life. Few of those companions 
remain unto this present ; but my father's affection- 
ate remembrance made many of them, whose faces 
I have never seen, well known to me in childhood. 

From his journal and letters, some idea may be 
gained of his inward experiences, and of the spirit 
which animated him during his studies. Here is 
doubtless the secret of his successful ministry. The 
letters to his. future wife have been called model 
letters. And truly the devout spirit, the tender 
thoughtfulness, the longing to stimulate her to 
such exertion and lead her to such reflection as 
might best fit her to be a pastor's wife, the eager 
interest in his studies expressed in them, and, above 
all, the determination, so patent in every letter, to 
learn, know, and preach nothing save Jesus Christ, 
and him crucified, — make them not unworthy the 
epithet. 

From the journal at South Reading : — 

April 9, 1829. — This being Fast Day, I am led to 
consider my sins ; and oh that I could so mourn and weep 
on account of them as to keep an acceptable fast unto 
the Lord ! In attending the worship of God ^to-day I 
have felt some delight, some grateful emotions. My 
hard heart was in a measure melted, and I was led to 
make new resolutions. In the strength of the Lord may 
I perform my sacred vows ! O Holy Spirit ! by thy 
resistless power bring me submissive at the foot of the 
cross. 



20 Memorial of 

April II. — My feelings to-day have been in an un- 
settled state. I have had some doubts and fears in 
respect to my adoption into the divine family. But, 
blessed be God ! I found access to the throne of grace, 
and was able to go to Him, who, I trust, has granted me 
some ra3^s of his Spirit to banish the clouds of darkness 
from my mind. Were it not for Christ's intercession, I 
should have no hope. I am ready, under a sense of his 
mercy, to call upon all that is within me to bless his holy 
name. Surely, if I am a Christian, I am the least of all. 
But " Why art thou cast down, O my soul ! and why art 
thou disquieted in me ? Hope thou in God, for I shall 
yet praise him." 

April i6. — I have been to-day somewhat depressed 
on account of my studies. I fear, that, before I am pre- 
pared by a thorough education for the work which I 
contemplate, my health will be impaired so as to unfit me 
for its important duties. I fear, also, that I shall trust 
too much to my attainments (should they be consider- 
able), and forget the words of the Lord Jesus, when he 
said, " AVithout me ye can do nothing." Surely, it is a 
noble work, and calls for the noblest energies. 

April 17. — I find the same wicked heart within me. 
" Oh, wretched man that I am ! who shall deliver me ? " 
Blessed be God, I do look forward to the happy day when 
I shall be freed from sin. How can I be so much taken 
up with the world and its fleeting objects, who profess to 
be an heir of that better inheritance ? 

April 18. — I have to-day been much exercised to find 
something to deliver as a message to the people on the 
Sabbath. My prayer is, that good may result from my 
labor j but all my hope is in God. I think that it is my 



Rev. yoliii yennings, 21 

greatest desire to be a useful minister of the Lord Jesus 
Christ ; and it appears to me, that, if I can only be the 
means of saving one soul, I shall be amply rewarded. 

thou blessed Redeemer, accompany thy word with 
thine almighty influence! 

April 19, — This has indeed been a day of interest to 
me. I have felt an increased desire for the salvation of 
souls, and have enjoyed an unusual degree of freedom in 
preaching ; and I have reason to believe, that, by the 
blessing of God, some good will result to the souls of 
those who listened with great attention. My soul leaped 
for joy when I beheld the falling tear ; and I was ready 
to soar above the world and all its concerns. Oh, what 
a glorious work it is to urge sinners to repent, and turn 
to God ! I am willing to spend and be spent for God ; 
and all my desire is to do good to the souls of my fellow- 
creatures. I want to be prepared to say at the last, " I 
have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I 
have kept the faith." 

April 26. — This day I have felt, while preaching, in 
whom my strength lieth. I am satisfied that we have 
this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the 
power may be of God, and not of us. Can it be that I, 
a poor, weak, dependent mortal, am called to the high 
and holy work of the gospel minTstry? What am I, that 

1 should be so distinguished ? Lord, make me faithful ! 

From another letter to his future wife, dated 
May 2, 1829 : — 

When I look at the minister's life, it presents an in- 
teresting subject of thought. He is a man possessed of 



2 2 Memorial of 

like passions with other men ; and yet the world look to 
him for perfection, and often cause him to mourn in 
secret because of their hard and unjust reproaches of him 
and his Master. He labors intensely in his study, that 
he may bring from the treasury of the gospel " things new 
and old." In his pulpit, he often weeps over his people's 
unbelief and hardness of heart. He is placed in the 
forefront of the hottest contests with sin ; and all the 
artillery of earth and hell are directing their deadly 
weapons at him. Surel}^ his position is an interesting, 
and, it would seem, a perilous one. But look at his 
joys ! He is clad with an armor which is sufficient to 
guard him from all the assaults of his foes. He is strong 
in the Lord and in the power of his might ; and with the 
sword of the Spirit he is enabled to triumph. His joy 
compensates him for all his labor. 

My situation here is pleasant. I board with a widow, 
who is a pious and good woman, and very motherly. 
The school is increasing daily ; and the advantages are 
very great. I am almost entirely secluded in my room, 
and do not allow more than five or six hours for sleep. 
My health is not as good as it was when at home. I 
sometimes fear that I shall not be able to apply myself 
closely for any length of time. I feel more and more 
anxious to obtain an education. When I look at the 
great work before me, I feel that I cannot be too well 
prepared for it ; but oh that I could feel more my de- 
pendence upon God ! 

From the journal, May 7, 1829 : — 

Have been more than usually impressed with the 
importance of a holy walk and a godly conversation. 



Rev. yohn yennings, 23 

Felt some melting of heart when addressing the throne 
of grace. Oh, what a glorious Advocate we have with 
the Father ! 

May 12. — How tough is the path of human life ! I 
fear, that, while I am advancing in literature, I may 
decline in spiritual joys. Oh for more devotion to Christ 
and his cause ! 

May 13. — Have been much cast down on account of 
not progressing in my studies as I could wish. But how 
much reason I have to mourn and lament my awful de- 
parture from God, whom I have professed to love ! My 
life is crowned with his mercy. Every hour shows his 
goodness. Surely his love demands my time, my talents, 
and my all. 

May 20. — I have this evening contemplated with 
great delight the holy work of preaching the gospel. 
But how unworthy I am to engage in so great a work ! 
Lord, what am I, and what is my father's house, that I 
should be called to so responsible a position ? But in 
God is my help and strength ; and from his fulness I may 
receive grace equal to my day. 

June 4. — I have to-day felt the peace which the 
world cannot give nor take away. Have had sweet com- 
munion with God, and found the promises of the gospel 
to be precious. 

June 8. — Have thought much on the importance of 
personal piety, and felt some ardent desires for it. And, 
when viewing the church, have mourned that there is so 
much conformity to the world, and so little of the spirit 
of the gospel. Oh that the Lord would purify his 
Church, and cause her to shine forth. in all her beauty 
and glory ! 



24 Memorial of 

June 17. — Am I indeed an ambassador for Christ? 
Oh, how ought I to labor for the salvation of souls ! Oh 
that the Lord would make me faithful, and finally give 
me souls as the seal of my ministry ! 

The journal is very closely written, and the above 
extracts are a sample of the whole. There is, 
throughout, the record of the same fluctuation of 
feeling, from deep despondency to overflowing joy, 
inseparable from his sensitive temperament ; the 
same eager desire for rapid progress in study, 
which his imperfect health often hindered ; the 
same lowly opinion of himself, in contrast with the 
highest estimate of the great work before him ; 
the same longing for, yet shrinking from, the en- 
trance upon his labors. 

From a letter to his future wife, June 20, 1829 : — 

How interesting will be our situation ! We shall 
influence the coming generation, and live in a very in- 
teresting and enlightened period of the world. We 
ought to be aware that the march of improvement is 
very rapid, and to desire to be thoroughly furnished unto 
every good work. We need the influence of the Holy 
Spirit to prepare us for our duty. Without Christ we can 
do nothing. 

To the same, Dec. 12, 1829 : — 

I am happy to learn that you are advancing in that 
knowledge which- will render you useful to the world, 
and especially that you have an increasing sense of the 



Rev, John yennings, 25 

• 

vanity of earthly things. My desire and prayer is that 
you may be an example of piety. The exercises of my 
heart of late have been beyond expression. On Tuesday 
I was twenty-one. I am astonished at the rapid flight 
of my days. It is but as a moment since I saw the 
latest breath of my tender father, and was left, an 
orphan, in the care of my loving mother. Oh, how great 
has been the care of a kind Providence ! And shall I 
not devote the remnant of my days to the service of my 
Redeemer, to whom I am under everlasting obligations 
for his dying love ? Oh, when I think of that precious 
blood, which, I trust, has been applied to my polluted 
soul, I cry out with the Psalmist, "What shall I render 
unto the Lord .'"' On Thursday I attended the ordination 
of Brother Wade, — a good friend of mine, — at Woburn,. 
about five miles from here. The services were the most 
interesting I ever witnessed. I cannot express my feel- 
ings when our brethren in the gospel laid their hands on 
the head of the candidate, and the gray-headed father 
consecrated him to the work by solemn prayer. " Oh,'^ 
thought I, " how can I ever be qualified for the work, 
which might fill an angel's heart, and fiilled a Saviour's, 
hands ! " But the grace of God is sufficient ; and here is- 
all my hope. My situation is quite pleasant. I have a 
room entirely to myself, in which I have a great many 
happy hours. I have an increasing attachment to my 
studies. As to my future course, I hardly know what to 
say ; for I am as yet unsettled. I feel disposed to com- 
mit my way unto the Lord. I should be very much dis- 
appointed if I should be obliged to leave the course of 
study which I earnestly desire to pursue ; and I assure 
you that L shall not, unless forced to do so by ill-health 

3 



26 Memorial of 

or want of funds. May the Lord bless you, and give 
you the grace, patience, and prudence which you need, 
is the prayer of yours most affectionately. 

In the autumn of the year 1829 he united with 
the church in Hartford, by request of his excellent 
friends there, and continued this connection through 
the period of his studies. He thus became greatly 
attached to that church, and endeared himself to 
them. 

To his future wife, Jan. 27, 1830: — 

Brother Babcock's church in Salem have been very 
kind, and he seems like a father to me. I have just re- 
ceived from them the money for two terms' tuition, and 
expect they will pay it during the year. I have also 
received from the Young Ladies' Education Society some 
useful articles. Brother Babcock says that the Massa- 
chusetts Education Society will certainly help me. 

To the same, March 13, 1830: — 

The present is a time which calls for the most de- 
cided and vigorous efforts on the part of Christians. 
Lifidelity is raising boldly and unmasked its impious 
head ; and its votaries are aiming their deadly blows at 
the very foundations of vital religion. You may think 
my language strong; but, when I think of the blasphemy 
and ridicule which are heaped upon the Christian re- 
ligion, my blood chills in my veins. When I think of 
the errors that are abroad in the earth, and of the enemies 



Rev, yohn yeiznings. 27 

of the cross of Christ, I long to go forth and take a 
decided stand in the cause of mv Master, and face the 
foes of his gospel. But those with whom I should have 
to contend are many of them educated ; and on that 
ground I cannot meet them efficiently. I will not spare 
my efforts to become a workman that need not be 
ashamed. But I know that after I have done all that I 
am able in the use of means, yet without the Spirit it is 
of no avail. I have just returned from a meeting of the 
pious students. It really appeared as if the Spirit of the 
Lord was there. There were present more than twenty 
who are looking forward to the work of the Christian 
ministry. I think there are in this place some tokens of 
a revival. Many places in this region are enjoying 
refreshing from the presence of the Lord. I spent my two 
weeks' vacation recently in Rowley. I preached three 
sabbaths, visited and lectured during the week. The 
Lord seemed to be in the place by his Spirit Such a 
crowding of meetings, and such anxiety to hear, I hardly 
ever witnessed. The society meet in a hall, having no 
house of their own. It was there that I saw the sinner 
bowed down, and the young convert rejoicing in the love 
of God. Oh, what a glorious work, to point mourning 
souls to the " Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of 
the world " ! I preached there, about three months since, 
two sabbaths, and was told that there were those who 
then received their first impressions, and are now re- 
joicing in Christ. How unworthy am I to receive any 
tokens of the approbation of my Redeemer ! and yet what 
encouragement have I to go forward in his service ! I 
spend most of my time alone in my room, which is some- 
N times a Bethel to my soul. By divine assistance I am 



2 8 Memorial of 

enabled to overcome, in some degree, my natural dis- 
position, so prone to levity, which often leads me to weep 
in secret. But I want more humility of heart. I want 
to devote my all to God, totally and unreservedly. I 
expect, if possible, to visit you about the last of August 
or first of September ; but I shall probably be obliged to 
walk to save expense. 

To the same, July 12, 1850 : — 

I wonder that I can dispute about comparatively 
amimportant theories, when souls are perishing around 
tme. I often have such views of the great work of the 
ministry as would cause me to sink, were it not for the 
promise of my great Captain and Saviour, '' Lo, I am 
with you alway." How sweet and refreshing to the soul 
are the promises of the gospel ! How can I ever go to 
the throne of grace with a cold heart ? And now, my dear 

.S ■, may you be humble, watchful, and prayerful ! and 

may we be fitted for extensive usefulness unitedly in this 
world, and for happiness in that which is to come ! Be 
.assured I remain yours with increasing attachment. 

To the same, Sept. 25, 1830: — 

I often think of my anxious mother, by whose care 
my childhood was surrounded, and whose tears I have 
so lately seen flowing as I parted from her. I seem 
sometimes almost to be sensible of her thoughts hover- 
ing around me, and wondering how it fares with me 
here. I trust that although I am far from home, yet I 
have with me a "Friend that sticketh closer than a 
brother." 



Rev, yohn Jejinings, 29 

To the same, Nov. 20, 1830: — 

I rejoice to tell you that I have, for a week or two 
past, enjoyed something of a revival in my own heart. 
I bless God for his goodness and mercy. I have been 
enabled to draw water out of the wells of salvation, — to 
enjoy sweet communion with the Father, and with his 
Son Jesus Christ. I have come to the resolution that I 
will endeavor to cultivate my religious feelings, whether 
I advance in literary studies or not. 

I often ask myself, What will be the worth of a minister 
who is cold and lifeless in religion, even if he be a learned 
man ? How important that the messenger of God to 
man should feel the worth of his rriessage ! If I desire 
any thing, I think it is that I may be a good and active 
minister of the Lord Jesus Christ. I rise at five, and 
devote two hours to religious exercises. I, in this way^ 
find my mind in a much better frame for the studies of 
the day than otherwise. I have lately read Baxter's 
" Saints' Rest," which I consider next to the Bible. There 
is a heavenly inspiration through the whole of it, un- 
paralleled by any thing I have read. Doubtless you 
have read it. If not, I hope you will at the first oppor- 
tunity ; and, if you have, you may read it repeatedly with 

great profit. 

3* 




IV. 



(^-5/^N the autumn of 1831, my father entered the 
seminary at Newton. His joy on arriving 
there, and the eager interest with which he 
began his theological studies, as well as his 
enjoyment_s and experience there, are best 
described in his own words. In a letter to his 
future wife, dated Nov. 8, 1831, he writes, — 




I have at length arrived at the place to which I have 
long looked with deep interest, and, under circum- 
stances of great mercy, have commenced my studies at 
this institution. Here is every thing interesting to one 
who wishes to prepare for usefulness. I room in the 
third story of the building, which is so situated as to 
command a delightful prospect on every hand. Here are 
about sixty students, who meet night and morning for 
prayers, eat at the same table, and enjoy the same 
privileges. We are about a quarter of a mile from the 
public road, and are a world by ourselves. The pro- 
fessors are decidedly the most pious and pleasant men 



Rev. John Jennings, 31 

I have ever seen, and treat us with all the affection of 
brothers. 

You may well suppose that a most hallowed atmos- 
phere surrounds the place where are so many who 
profess to be cheered by the same hopes, preparing for 
the same great woik^ and looking forward to the same 
glorious reward. There is a great degree of harmony 
and brotherly love ; and the efforts of the professors are 
unwearied to promote a cultivation of. every thing that 
is "lovely and of good report." I feel that this new 
situation is one of great responsibility. I am now a 
theological student, and shall here sow the seeds which 
will spring up in future life. 

From the journal, Dec. 19, 1831 : — 

Arose this morning at three o'clock, and, during the 
first hour, endeavored to cast my soul on Jesus, and beg 
his assistance in the duties of the day. This hour, spent 
in reading my Bible, and prayer, has been of great 
advantage to me to-day ; and yet I have to mourn over 
my wandering heart, 

Dec. 23. — I have been reading the life of Carlos 
Wilcox, some of whose last sermons I heard, and whom 
I followed to the grave. He was one of the most heav- 
enly preachers I ever heard. Oh, how devotedly did he 
live, and how peacefully did he die ! 

Jan. 10, 1832. — Have spent one week's vacation 
at Methuen, where the Lord has done wonders. I en- 
joyed very much in visiting from house to house, and had 
some meltings of soul in addressing the great congrega- 
tion. Oh for more holiness of heart and life ! 



32 Memorial of 

Jan. II, — Here I am, studying the word of God ; and 
yet how Kttle of its spirit do I possess ! It seems 
ahnost impossible that I can ever be a humble and 
devoted minister of Christ ; and yet I cannot give it up. 
Oh, no ! I must tell the story of Calvary to the famish- 
ing multitude. I sometimes think that I must go far 
hence to the heathen. O Lord, direct my steps, and to 
thee help me ever to commit my ways ! 

Jan. 13. — This evening we have had a meeting of the 
Society of Missionary Inquiry. I cannot express the 
thrilling emotions of my heart when I contemplate the fact 
that so many of the inhabitants of the earth are yet in 
the regions of darkness. 

Jan. 17. — Oh! when shall my inconstant soul cease 
to wander from my highest love ? When shall I be able 
to keep the resolutions I so often make ? I have to 
complain of lightness and trifling which would ill 
become me as a minister. I am astonished that I, to 
whom, I believe, is intrusted the holiest work in which 
man can engage, should ever indulge in such a spirit. 
I feel some penitence for my sins. O Lord, take this 
heart, and bind it to thee ! 

Jan. 18. — Depressed in spirit. I know not how I 
can proceed with my studies. O Lord, direct me in the 
right path ! 

Jan. 24. — Oh the riches of God's grace! the great 
compassion of the Redeemer, which brought him down 
to die for man ! I have reason to be astonished at the 
mercy of God, which gives me the hope that I may be 
arrayed in the Saviour's righteousness. 



Rev, yohn penning s. 33 



To his future wife : — 

Newton, Feb. 13, 1831. 

A recent dispensation of God's providence has deeply 
affected my heart. A young man who was a member of 
this institution, with whom I was intimately acquainted at 
South Reading, last fall went to the South for his health, 
and there died. My brother is gone ! He with whom I 
have taken sweet counsel, walked to the house of God, and 
sat in the sacred desk, is no more. And there, in a far- 
distant grave, is laid the object of our affection and the 
hope of the church. No more will he w^alk up and down 
these halls, or gladden our social circle. No : there is his 
vacant seat, which tells of his long, long absence. But 
though Brother Wright is dead, he yet speaketh. It is 
cheering to know that he was sustained by the Saviour's 
presence, though deprived of that of his friends. If we 
live devoted to God, we may expect the light of his 
countenance when in the agonies of dissolving nature. 
It is only the good man that can expect the support of 
the Saviour when he comes to die. Oh the happiness 
of that hour to the faithful servant of God ! It is the 
time of his release from the burden of the flesh, and his 
introduction into those blissful mansions where all is 
peace ! But while some Christians are waiting and long- 
ing for the coming of the Lord, we fear that others may 
be so enveloped in the cares of this world as to suffer 
great loss j and, though finally saved, may depart with- 
out those triumphant views with which others meet the 
solemn moment. 

Oh may we, who have known him, be prepared to 
meet our brother in the glorious morning of the resur- 



34 Memorial of 

rection, and to behold his shining form, clad in immortal 
youth ! Shall I ever be fitted to enjoy the society of 
Abraham, of Isaiah, and of Paul, and to dwell in the 
presence of my Redeemer ? There is mercy with God ; 
and here is my only hope. How shall we, then, look 
upon the grave with a holy triumph, and, while we mag- 
nify the riches of divine grace, despise the clogs of flesh 
which so long held us from our chief delight ! 

These expressions accord remarkably with his 
utterances forty years later, when within a few 
weeks of the blessed release for which he had 
through life so ardently longed. In another letter 
he writes, — 

My studies are pleasant, as you might expect when 
I tell you that I study only the Bible in the Greek and 
Hebrew. We thus find many beauties which remain 
undiscovered to the English reader of the Scriptures, and 
avoid many absurd (not to say foolish) interpretations of 
the precious Book of God, even by ministers. I seldom 
read in the English Bible now ; but, even for devotional 
purposes, read the Hebrew and Greek, and find great 
satisfaction in it. 

I cannot definitely say how long I shall remain here. 
I have superior advantages ; but, unless some unknown 
way be opened for providing me with the means of pay- 
ing my expenses, I do not see that I shall be able to 
continue longer than until spring. 

March ii, 1832. — Thanks to God and to the kind- 
ness of my professor, I am now in circumstances which 
will enable me to proceed with my course. I have con- 



Rev. John yennings. 35 

eluded that it is my duty to do so, unless Providence 
should interpose. This conclusion I have reached delib- 
erately and prayerfully, and from my earnest desire to be 
more useful. I do not wish to increase the number of 
inefficient ministers already in the field. The work 
grows in importance. "The field is the world," — a 
glorious field, open to the enterprise of the soldier of the 
cross. The contest with the powers of darkness becomes 
more and more fierce and desperate. The day is draw- 
ing nigh when our blessed Redeemer shall reign from 
shore to shore. But ere that there is work to be done. 
And who shall share the labor and the reward } Most 
assuredly, Christians must gird themselves for the task. 
The spiritual temple will go up. Some sluggish, half- 
hearted Christians may stand aloof, but such have reason 
to fear lest they be found wanting at the last. But you 
may by this time ask if I am going to be a missionary. 
I answer, Yes, I am. I have not decided that it is my 
duty to labor in heathen lands, or in the western wilder- 
ness ; but this I am decided upon, that I cannot let the 
crv of millions who have never heard of the Saviour 
that I love, die away upon my ear unheeded. When 
my studies are completed, I expect to take my commis- 
sion, and endeavor to be guided by the Spirit and provi- 
dence of God to that part of his vineyard where it is his 
will that I should labor. But, wherever I may be placed, 
the interests of the heathen must have a prominent place 
in my heart, and in my prayers and efforts. 

To the same, April 25, 1832: — 

I have been for three or four weeks out of health, and 
absent from the Institution, and I did not wish to write 



o 



6 Memorial of 



until 1 was better. I am also in doubt regarding my 
studies, desiring greatly to go on, but so involved in my 
temporal affairs that I cannot .see the way clear to do 
so. What way the Lord may open, I know not. I am 
sometimes discouraged when I see others going on with- 
out interruption in their studies. I almost envy them ; 
but I know this is not right, and that I need all that I 
have to encounter to keep me humble. I feel most of 
the time a sacred peace in casting all my care upon the 
Lord. 

To the same : — 

Newton, June 13, 1832. 
It is with a deep sense of the goodness of God, that I 
again commence writing to you. The last time I wrote 
I was quite indisposed, and obliged to leave my studies 
for a time. Now, through the mercy of my heavenly 
Father, I am quite restored. I was then apprehensive 
that I might have to leave the Institution for want of 
means to go on ; but the Lord has appeared for me, and 
I am again pursuing my studies with my class, under 
very comfortable circumstances. Oh, how good is God ! 
Newton is now one of the most delightful villages in 
New England. Nature is clothed in her loveliest attire, 
and the view from our hill is very fine. In one direction 
we see the spires of the city gleaming in the sun, or its 
lights glimmering in the darkness. Another way, we see 
a broad landscape varied by villages and groves ; where 
the first thing that attracts the eye is a lovely lake, on 
whose borders is situated the old church in which the 
venerable Father Grafton still preaches, and in whose 
waters he has buried many a willing convert. 
Near our building is a beautiful grove; whose sweet 



Rev, John yeii7iings, 2)7 

exhalations and varied music cheer the heart of the 
lonely student, walkins: amonsf the trees, and thinking; of 
the absent. 

But, with every thing pleasant around me, I am daily 
learning that I cannot be happy without the presence of 
Him "whose favor is life, and whose loving-kindness is 
better than life." Nothing is so necessary as an ardent 
spirit of personal piety. 

My vacation \vas very pleasantly spent in Methuen, 
where I have a great many excellent friends. During 
the time we had a protracted meeting ; and the Lord ap- 
peared by his Divine Spirit, and made the place of his 
feet glorious. Within two weeks, about forty were hope- 
fully converted. Oh, how sweet it is to point sinners to 
the Lamb of God ! 

I rejoice that you feel deeply the importance of the 
position you will occupy as a pastor's wife. I have 
recently heard of a pastor whose wife was a great hinder- 
ance to him. Now, this ought not so to be. You will 
pardon me if I say that you cannot feel too much the 
need of divine aid to qualify you for )our duties. The 
wife of a Christian pastor ought to consider, most of all, 
that the influence she exerts over her husband will have a 
decided bearing upon the cause of Christ. It is indeed 
a sacrifice on your part to become a pastor's wife ; but I 
pray that you may not lose your reward, and that I may 
never act unworthily of the confidence you have placed 
in me. 

From his journal, Oct. 25, 1832 : — 

T have returned to commence another term. Oh that 
I may make great advancement in the divine life ! 



o 



8 Memorial of 



Oct. 29. — Oh for a closer walk with God! My 
strength is perfect weakness, and my resolutions are 
liable every moment to be broken. If my salvation 
depended upon my faithfulness, how soon must I de- 
spair ! But bless the Lord, O my soul ! I have the name 
and righteousness of another to plead before the throne. 

Nov, 8. — Have to-day enjoyed some freedom in pri- 
vate devotion. Oh that I might come down from the 
mount of prayer with a face shining with heavenly 
lustre ! 

Nov. II. — While the shadows of night are yet linger- 
ing around the world, I desire to lift up my soul in heav- 
enly contemplation, and raise my petition to the God 
who heareth prayer, for his divine presence and blessing 
on this clay of sacred rest. Oh, how vain will be my 
attempts to serve and worship him, if he withhold the 
influence of his Holy Spirit ! 

Come, thou celestial Messenger, and, by thy glorious 
influence, waft my soul and all its affections away to 
Jesus, the crown of my hope 1 O Lord, afflict me not 
with thine absence to-day ! I cannot bear it ! Warm 
my heart, and let not my sins separate between thee and 
my soul ! " For I acknowledge my transgressions, and 
my sins are ever before me." But thou, precious Saviour, 
canst pardon ; and here is all my hope. 

Nov. 15. — I have again arisen to resume the duties 
of m}^ choice, because God has sustained me. While 
many, during the six hours of my sweet repose, have 
been called from time, or have been racked with pain, I 
am a living witness of God's mercy. O my soul ! think 
of the obligation which the return of every day brings 
upon thee to devote thy earliest and best affections to 
him ! 



Rev. yohn yennings. 39 

To his future wife : — 

Newton, Jan. 28, 1833. 

Greatly as we prize the works of the many excellent 
authors of the present clay, let us not fail to hold the 
Bible first. Where, among classic authors, is there so 
sweet a passage as " Come unto me, all ye that labor 
and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest " .'' Here 
only is life and immortality brought to life. By the aid 
and comfort of the blessed Volume, we may bear life's 
ills cheerfully, and triumph in death, looking upon the 
grave as a hallowed abode, where this flesh shall be 
refined and purified, to awake in the likeness of the 
blessed Saviour. 

To the same : — 

Newton Upper Falls, April 30, 1833. 
I am spending my vacation in this delightful village, 
about two mil-es from the Institution. I have preached 
in the new church every Sabbath since it was dedicated. 
I preach three times a week, and have a Bible-class ; and 
my labors are not severe. I board in a very pleasant 
family, and have one of the most delightful rooms in the 
world, looking out upon the windings of the Charles 
River. To-morrow evening I preach for Rev. Mr. Jacobs 
at Cambridgeport. It is one of my best homes. May 
the Lord assist me ! 

To the same : — 

Newton Theological Seminary, June 15, 1833. 
I wish you could see this place in all its summer 
beauty. Over my window, where I sit alone from day to 



40 Memorial of 

day, hang the branches of a noble ehn, formuig a bower, 
whence ascend the early notes of the lovely songsters 
that call me to my duties and devotions. Oh, how many 
are the objects which invite me to bow down before 
God, to own his goodness, and adore his character ! 
We hear his voice and see his hand in every thing. All 
his v/orks, with one united voice, exalt the Lord our 
God. Yet man, frail man, presumes to rebel against his 
Maker. Surely, if his works praise him thus, ought not 
we to bless him, — we whom his love has not only 
created, but redeemed ? 

You may have heard of the arrival of some of the mis- 
sionaries from Burmah, — Rev. Messrs. Wade and Sutton, 
with their wives, and with them a native Burman, and 
also a Karen. I had the pleasure of hearing Mr. Sutton 
in Boston, a few days since. When he spoke of the scenes 
he had witnessed, and the persecution and suffering he 
had endured, my feelings were unutterable. In closing, 
he said, that, if he had ten thousand lives, he would give 
them all to the glorious work of preaching the gospel to 
the heathen. Oh, this is devotion to the cause of Christ ! 
This is following Him who went about doing good. 

To the same : — 

Newton TiiEOLOGrcAL Seminary, Aug. 19, 1833. 

I hope to be remembered by you, where remembrance 
is sweet, at the throne of grace. 

I do not wish you to ask for me riches or honor, but 
ask, as the greatest honor that Heaven can bestow, that 
I may be a good minister of Jesus Christ, and that I may 
be rich in that precious treasure which is in the heavens. 



Rev, Jo Jin Jennings. 41 

I know that mental culture is of great importance ; but 
all learning and eloquence will be perverted, unless the 
minister cultivate his heart. 

To the same : — 

Newton Upper Falls, Sept 14, 1S33. 

Our anniversary occurred on Wednesday of this week. 
I assure you it was most impressive to see those eleven 
young men standing side by side for the last time in this 
world, and receiving the earnest and melting charge and 
farewell of their professor. Oh ! thought I, shall /stand 
there one year from to-day, and under the same circum- 
stances ? 

I am now engaged in preaching here, and shall remain 
during my vacation. I am pleasantly situated ; but oh 
that I were qualified for my work ! 

Sabbath Afternoon. — I have attempted to preach 
twice to-day, but made miserable work of it. Mv heart 
was cold, and the people did not pray as they ought, 
and really a part of the time I was in an agony of 
soul. I\Iy text in the morning was, " Woe to them that 
are at ease in Zion ! " I felt that I was myself the char- 
acter I was trying to describe. Text in the afternoon, 
" Lord, revive thy work." 

I have to preach again this evening ; but how can 1 1 
" Lord, be merciful to me a sinner," is the language of 
my soul. I cannot describe the anguish of my heart. I 
have no reason to hope that I am a Christian. Oh for 
a view of the Saviour's pardoning love ! 

Sabbath Evening. — " Bless the Lord, O my soul, and 
all that is within me, bless his holy name ! " " He 
4* 



42 Memorial of 

hath heard my cry, and hath enlarged me when I was in 
distress." I have this evening preached with comfort. 
I was blessed with a feeling of nearness to God in 
prayer. 

You have, in the above, had a history of one of the 
most miserable Sabbaths I ever spent. Probably, in 
the course of my life, if it be prolonged, you may often 
witness the anguish of my heart, in view of my sinful- 
ness and unfitness for my work. Then how much I 
shall need your sympathy and prayers ! I do not often 
write the worst of my feelings ; but I am willing that you 
should know just what are my hopes and fears, joys 
and sorrows. 

I was appointed to deliver, last week, the address be- 
fore the Society of Missionary Inquiry. It was almost 
impossible for me to pronounce the closing sentences. 

The thought that the next time I should meet some 
of my brethren whom I dearly love would probably be 
at the judgment, was overwhelming. But it is the call 
of God, and we joyfully submit. 

To the same :r— 

Newton Theological Seminary, Oct. 28, 1833. 

I look with great interest upon the coming year, as it 
is the last of my course of study ; and then I shall be 
sent forth into the Lord's vineyard, but how unprepared ! 
I know that the Lord will give me strength equal to my 
day, if I put my trust in him. But the springs of my 
spiritual life are very low. Oh ! when shall I live above 
the world, and my perpetual wanderings from the cross 
of Jesus cease ? 

I can and will commend you to God. Let your light 



Rev. yoJin Jefinings. 43 

continually shine. Live in the constant performance of 
every dutv, and vou will have nothing to fear. 

To the same : — 

Newton Theological Seminary, Dec. 4, 1833. 

M}' studies are quite pleasant, increasingly so as I 
approach their close. My pecuniary situation is not so 
favorable as I could wish. My purse is empty ; but the 
Lord will provide. I believe he is disciplining me to 
plead the cause of poor beneficiaries, when I shall be in 
a situation to do it.* 

I look forward, and imagine myself receiving my pro- 
fessor's parting benediction as I stand on the verge of 
public life, about to take upon myself the sacred office 
of the ministry. Looking still further, I think of my- 
self surrounded with the cares of a church. And, when 
I think of standing before my Judge to give an account 
of my stewardship, I tremble, and can only fly to the 
cross of Christ, to cast myself on his mercy, and plead 
for his grace. 

To the same : — 

New^ton Theological Seminary, Jan. 24, 1834, 
I have some good news to tell you. The Lord is 
reviving his work in Danbury. The work of grace in 
that dear church began one evening, when a young man, 
formerly a schoolmate of mine, arose from his seat in 
the congregation, and w^ent forw^ard to the pulpit, crying, 

* This he did with great effect years after, in the meetings of the Education 
Society ; and many a young student strugghng to enter the ministry has re- 
ceived the sympathy and encouragement he well knew how to give. 



44 Memorial of 

out in the anguish of his soul, " Pray for me ! pray for 
me ! " The church was aroused to call mightily upon 
God ; and in two days that young man, with his wife and 
sister, were converted. In the course of a few days, a 
number were brought to rejoice in God's abounding 
grace ; and the work is still going on. Oh ! methinks the 
angels are hovering over that place, waiting to strike 
their harps anew at the return of every penitent sinner. 
Oh, had I the wings of a dove, how soon would I mingle 
in their songs, and join in their prayers ! Oh, what a 
treasure is the gospel ! For its promulgation let me live ; 
and, filled with its glorious hopes and blessed consola- 
tions, let me die ! 

I have enjoyed more of the presence of the Lord of 
late than usual. Last Sabbath evening, at the Falls, I 
felt such an overwhelming sense of the worth of the 
soul, the danger of the impenitent, and thd love of 
Christ, that I wept profusely, and could say, " Oh that 
my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, 
that I might weep day and night " for careless sinners ! 
I feel at times such a weight resting upon me, that I 
must be overwhelmed, were it not for the strength and 
sympathy of Him who said, " Lo, I am with you al- 
way." 

I am still as undecided as ever where I may labor 
after my studies are completed. I hope you will pray 
for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, that I may be 
directed to the place where I can do most for the up- 
building of the Redeemer's kingdom. If I know my 
owm heart, I do not aspire to the fame of a great man, 
any further than I am good. Oh, let me be so honored 
and happy as to win many souls to Christ and heaven ! 



Rev. yohn yennings. 45 

I ask no more. I do not wish a large church, I think 
everv vouns: man ou2:ht to be careful not to choose a 
sphere which will require so much active labor as to pre- 
clude close study. I commit my way to the Lord, and 
pray that he may direct my steps. 

I wish I could visit you in my next vacation ; but 
poverty forbids. May you be kept in the light of the 
Saviour's countenance continually ! As ever yours. 

To the same : — 

Newton Theological Seminary, May 3, 1834. 
Through the mercy of God, I am once more returned 
to my pleasant room. But I have met my friends under 
affliction. I came just in time to follow to the grave the 
wife of our senior professor. In her we have lost a 
most valued friend. She was a mother to the students, 
and an ornament to the church. We have no cause 
to mourn for her. Her last hours were spent in the 
sweetest conversation with her children about the 
heaven to which she was going, and her last exclamations 
showed that she was enraptured with the visions of that 
celestial glory into which she has now entered. But, 
when I think of her afflicted husband and her mother- 
less children, my heart bleeds. Let us try to have our 
hearts so impressed with eternal things that we shall 
hold this world with a loose grasp. • 

To the same : — 

Newfon Theological Seminary, June 4, 1833. 
I have thought of late that Christians do not contem- 
plate heaven as much as they ought. Let our eyes be 



4^ Memorial. 

fixed on the blessed time when " toils and cares shall 
end," and they will seem light while we pass through 
them. Last week the anniversaries of all the most im- 
portant benevolent societies occurred in Boston. That 
of the Education Society was peculiarly interesting. 
After several very able addresses, $3,000 were subscribed 
in the space of an hour. The interest in missions was 
equally great. Surely, thought I, the Sun of righteous- 
ness will soon brighten the whole earth. 

Newton Theological Seminary, July 11. 
I can now give you some idea of the prospect regard- 
ing my settlement. I have had a large number of ap- 
plications, and, for various reasons, have been obliged to 
refuse several urgent calls, I have preached four Sab- 
baths at Beverly, about two miles from Salem. I think 
there is a strong probability that I shall settle there. 
They seem to be a most pious and excellent people. I 
hope we may be much in prayer, asking divine aid and 
guidance to prepare us for the great work to which we 
are approaching. 




V. 




N the 20th of August, 1834, the anniversary 
occurred at Newton, and the young student 
went forth to commence his active labor. 

His address on that occasion was char- 
acteristic. " The importance of an affection- 
ate manner in a preacher" was exempUfied in his 
after-life, as those who knew him best can testify. 

After much prayerful consideration of the differ- 
ent invitations he had received, he decided to 
accept the call of the church in Beverly, Mass. An 
entry in the journal, two days after his graduation 
at Newton, expresses his feelings on entering his 
first field of pastoral labor. Subsequent extracts 
briefly indicate the most interesting events of his 
residence in Beverly. 

Aug. 25, 1834, he writes to his future wife : — 



After some days of indescribable anxiety, I have 
decided that it is my duty to remain in Beverly, in ac- 



4 8 Memorial of 

cordance with the unanimous call of the church. May 
the Lord bless me in winning souls to Christ ! I trust I 
have not made a mistake in coming here. 

The past week has been a very iriteresting one. It 
was very hard to part with my classmates, with whom I 
have so long studied and prayed. The anniversary was 
delightful, and was said to be the most interesting ever 
enjoyed at Newton. 

I am assured of the increasing attachment of this 
people to me, and find myself growing in love for them. 
It is said they were never so united in a minister before. 
Oh, may this union continue ! 

I hope you will feel that you are coming into the 
midst of friends ; and be sure they all wish for your hap- 
piness. 

From the journal, Beverly, Aug. 22, 1834 : ■ — 

Felt greatly affected in coming to this place, with an 
invitation to become pastor of the church. Will this be 
the place where God will bless my labors ? If not, oh, 
permit me not to remain ! 

Aug. 23. — Overwhelmed with the subject of my 
settlement. Lord, what wilt thou have me to do ? 
Help me, or I shall fail ! Oh, lead me to the Rock 
that is higher than I. 

Aug. 24, Sabbath. — Enjoyed much to-day, though 
almost sinking under the weight of responsibility about 
to roll upon me if I become pastor of this church. I 
have nearly concluded that it is my duty. I am delighted 
with the union which exists in the church and society. 
Oh, may it be perpetuated ! 



Rev, John yeiinmgs. 49 

Aug. 25. — Have felt a sacred peace in committing 
my way to the Lord. Met the Young Men's Education 
Society. Oh, how I long for their conversion to God, 
that they may become preachers, as well as assist others 
to qualify themselves for this holy work ! 

Aug. 31. — Some sweet enjoyment, but a very solemn 
day. My answer to the call of the church was read by 
Bro. Miller of Wenham, with whom I exchanged in the 
afternoon. Oh for grace to go in and out before this 
people as becometh a minister of Jesus ! 

Sept. 7. — How sweet to preach the word of life, and 
point men to a crucified and risen Saviour ! This will 
be a solemn week. I expect to be ordained Wednesday. 
Oh for grace equal to my day ! Lord, give me thy smile, 
and it is enough ! 

Sept. 10. — Memorable day! I cannot describe my 
feelings when oa my unworthy head were laid the hands 
of the men of God. Oh, the work of the ministry! How 
solemn ! How delightful ! Am I running without being 
sent ? If not deceived, I do desire to labor for the 
salvation of this dear people ; but oh that the Lord 
would ratify my settlement by a copious shower of divine 
grace ! 

Rev. GustavLis F. Davis of Hartford preached 
the ordination sermon. Rev. Messrs. Wayland of 
Salem, and Holroid of Danvers, and others, took 
part in the services. 

Sept. 14, Sabbath. — h. good day. My soul longed 
for the salvation of the congregation, especially of the 
youth. Oh ! if the Lord will save some sinner by my 



50 Memorial of 

labors, then I shall feel satisfied that this is the field in 
which he designs me to labor. And what is my poor 
life in comparison with a soul ? 

Just heard the mournful tidings that Bro. Elijah Foster 
of Amesbury is gone to his heavenly rest. He has left 
us in the midst of his usefulness. But God knows w4ien 
to take his children to serve him in his upper temple. 

Sept. 29. — Attended to-day, as a bearer, at the fune- 
ral of Bro. Foster. " He sleeps in Jesus, and is blest." 

Sept. 30. — Attended the ordination of Bro. E. Crane, 
at Amesbury. Yesterday we buried his predecessor. 
It seemed as if eternity was very near. In reflecting 
upon the scenes of the past two days, I am overwhelmed. 
Oh that I may be better prepared to work in the vine- 
yard of my Master, for what I have seen and felt ! 

Sabbath noon, Oct. 5. — To-day I am for the first time 
to administer the sacred ordinance of the Lord's Supper. 
Oh for grace to make it profitable to me and the dear 
church ! 

Oct. 9. — This morning I was married. I feel that 
the relation on which I have entered will have an im- 
portant bearing upon my happiness and usefulness in the 
work to which 1 am called. May I ever act the part of 
the kindest of husbands ! 

Nov. 2. — Have enjoyed much to-day in holding forth 
the word of life to my dear people, and especially in 
breaking the bread and pouring the wine, — emblems of 
my Saviour's death. Oh that I may live upon the spir- 
itual bread of the kingdom for many days ! 

Nov. 3. — Felt sad this evening at the want of inter- 
est in the concert of prayer for missions. The church 
are cold and lifeless. O Lord, revive thy work ! Come, 
Lord Jesus, come quickly, or we perish ! 



Rev. John ye linings. 51 

June 2, 1835. — This evening, was visited by some of 
the society, who informed me of dissatisfaction because 
I do not visit enough. Oh ! what shall I do ? I fear that 
I can never satisfy the people in this respect. Lord, 
lead me in the right path, cost what it may ! 

Aug. 2. — Have to-day been quite happy in preaching 
to my flock, and enjoyed the precious privilege of com- 
ing to the Lord's table. Oh that the truth to-day 
preached may have a saving effect ! . Shall I Jiave one 
soul to rejoice over in future, because of this day's efforts? 

Aug. 4. — Some comfort to-day in visiting my flock, 
and trying to awaken them. Thought of Him who went 
about doing good. 

Aug. 6. — Unusually languid on account of indispo- 
sition of body. But oh that the Great Physician would 
heal my soul ! Lord, make me more happy, because 
more holy ! 

Aug. 9. — Had considerable feeling to-day in address- 
ing my people. Oh, their precious souls ! Lord, send 
by whom thou wdlt, but save this people ! 

Aug. 15. — How unworthy am I to preach the gos- 
pel ! I am almost ready to give up. No special evi- 
dence exists that I have done much good in this place. 
Eternitv will reveal the true state of the case. Shall I, 
after having preached to others, mVself be a castaway .^ 

" Jesus, I throw my arms around 
And hang upon thy breast : 
Without one gracious smile from thee, 
My spirit cannot rest." 

Aug. 26. — A day of unusual interest and solemnit}'. 
Attended the ordination of Bro. Banvard at Salem. 



52 Memorial of 

The sermon from Bro. Stow was on ministerial humility. 
How little of this excellent quality do I possess ! I 
must be a more humble and holy man. Oh, the corrup- 
tion of my hearty so full of self-love and pride, and desire 
for ease ! 

Sept. 2. — A day of special prayer in reference to my 
work and that of my ministering brethren. I should be 
discouraged were it not for the precious promise, " Lo, 
I am with you alway." Blessed Saviour, help me to 
take thee at thy word !! 

Sept. 6. — I have to-day completed the Sabbaths of 
one year as pastor of this church. I made, at the table 
of the Lord, the determination to be a more earnest 
minister of Christ. 

Sept. 7. — Have felt more than usual to-day for the 
heathen. When will they be cheered by the same light 
and hopes we cherish ? 

Sept. 8. — A severe pain in the head : but how light 
my sufferings ! how little is there of bitterness in my 
cup ! 

Sept. 24. — Attended the funeral of Bro. E. W. Free- 
man of Lowell, who was taken suddenly away from the 
privileges of the Association, just as it was assembling. 
Lord, how frail is man ! 

Dec. 20. — The Lord has not left us. In the Second 
Church, in this town, he is converting sinners. Blessed 
be his name ! I have some hope that the cloud of 
mercy may pass this way. Lord, hasten it ! 

This prayer was answered ; and, the winter fol- 
lowing, the young pastor was cheered by the awak- 
ening of the church, and some hopeful conversions. 



Rev. yoIi7i ycnnings. 53 

Among the first whom he baptized were the wife 
of one of his deacons, and her son, a young lad, 
at whose ordination my father preached, just twenty 
years afterward. 

I make one more extract from the journal in 
Beverly, without attempting to express the reverent 
and grateful feeling with which his daughter, at the 
age of thirty-five, has read for the first time her 
father's record of his thoughts and hopes on the 
day of her birth. 

March 23, 1836. — This has been a day of great 
interest. The meridian sun looked upon me in the new, 
responsible, and endearing relation of parent. Oh, what 
emotion has filled mv breast ! Another immortal beinj: 
is born to die ! How much of its future destiny 
depends upon its parents ! If ever I felt the need of 
wisdom and grace, it is this evening. Lord, help me, as 
the first duty, to give up this my first-born into thy hand 
for time and eternity. Form, I beseech thee, her mind, 
her body, her heart, to glorify thee. Oh, early make the 
impress of thine own blessed character upon her ! May 
she grow up for thee, and live for thee ; and may she die 
in thy embrace, and shine as a star in the Saviour's 
crown forever ! O Lord ! deny what thou wilt, but give 
her thy grace, make her a plant of piety, and an orna- 
ment to the church ; and I ask no more ! 

His departure from Beverly caused much sorrow 

to the church. There was no dissatisfaction with 

him, either as a preacher or pastor, worthy of men- 
5* 



54 Memorial of 

tion. The only complaint of which I can learn is 
alludeH to in the journal of June 2, 1835, above 
quoted. There is a record of two hundred and 
seventeen pastoral visits during that year. He 
afterward questioned the wisdom of the change. 
Still, most of his friends who knew his after life 
will agree with a minister who said recently, that 
" Bro. Jennings did more good in his different 
pastorates than he could have done in one." It was 
doubtless the hand of the Master which guided 
him to Grafton, Mass., whither he removed in July, 
1836, carrying with him the sympathy and regrets 
of his warmly-attached and deeply-loved church. 
Only a few years since, when he visited Beverly, 
one of the members of the church said, " I shall 
never forget the bitter tears I shed when Mr. Jen- 
nings went away." 

It is proper here to insert a sketch of his char- 
acter and labors, taken from the " History of the 
Church " in Beverly, by one of its pastors. 

JOHN JENNINGS, THE EXCELLENT MINISTER. 

There was a general excellence distinguishing Mr. 
Jennings as a man and a minister. He was not so 
much a man of particular parts as many ; but he was 
rather one to be commended as a whole. He com- 
manded respect and esteem personally ; and his efforts 
were acceptable, and seldom exceptionable. He inspired 
the confidence of those who knew him ; and he won the 
love of his people for his kindness and fidelity. 



Rev. John yeniiings. 



55 



Whatever he did was well done in his calling ; and 
he was indeed a minister to be desired. But little could 
be said against him, while much could be said for him. 
His excellence of character and service were unques- 
tionable. 




VI. 




Y father entered the new pastoral relation 
with fresh zeal and vigor, and seems to 
have been peculiarly blessed in his labors. 
One important fact should be noted. His 
health, which had suffered from a residence 
on the sea-shore, was now very much improved. 
This enabled him to go on joyfully in his chosen 
path, and fitted him for labors more abundant. As 
his field enlarged, his mind expanded and his piety 
deepened, and thus he became thoroughly furnished 
for still more extended usefulness as preacher and 
pastor. He devoted himself resolutely to study ; 
but this did not lessen his affectionate pastoral 
interest in his people. He shared their joys and 
griefs, and constantly and earnestly sought to lead 
them to a higher piety and a better life. 

The journal at this time reveals in him a deep 
humility, — almost discouragement, — of which his 
outward labors bore no trace. From the lowest 



Rev. yohn yennings. 57 

self-abasement, and the most humble confession in 
secret, he would go forth cheerfully to his work, 
absorbed in his people, and so caring for their wel- 
fare as wholly to forget himself. 

From the journal : — 

Grafton, July 23, 1836. — Have been for some time 
in an unsettled state. The providence of God has at 
length directed my steps to this place. To-morrow I am 
to preach the gospel. Lord, thou only canst prepare me 
for so holy a duty ! Grant me a deep sense of eternal 
things, so that I may affect others with the solemnities 
of another world ! 

Aug. 7. — This morning felt some penitence for sin, 
and earnest desire for the salvation of my people. 
Sweet, indeed, are the ordinances of the gospel ! Lord, 
prepare me for the rest of heaven ! 

His installation took place in Grafton, Aug. 10, 
1836. Dr. Stow preached the sermon. Rev. Mr. 
Aldrich of Worcester, and Rev. Mr. Boomer of 
Sutton, with others, assisted in the service. 

From his journal : — 

Aug. 10. — Have this day been publicly recognized 
as pastor of this people. Have felt awfully impressed 
with the work to which I am called. A great people, and 
needing much labor and piety in their minister. Oh for 
grace to watch for souls as one who must give account ! 
Have a great desire to do this people good. On the 
help of the Lord I would rely. 



58 Memorial of 

" Thy grace must all the work perform, 
And give the free reward." 

Aug. 20. — Feel greatly the need of Divine help on the 
morrow. Have some yearnings of soul for those who 
may hear the Word. It is solemn business to preach the 
gospel. I want to get near the Saviour's feet, and learn 
the message from him. 

Aug. 21. — This is a delightful morning. The sun is 
cloudless. May the Sun of righteousness appear in my 
path to-day ! I feel great comfort in looking upward for 
guidance. I love to preach if Christ is near. 

Sabbath eve. — This has been a pleasant day, and I 
hope not spent in vain. Have found comfort in trying 
to preach Christ and him crucified. Oh that my people 
may be saved in the final day ! Lord, help me to be 
more humble and pious ! 

Sept. 12. — Have had a weeping and most solemn 
time this evening, in reviewing my life. Oh, the broken 
resolutions, the carelessness, the indolence and ineffi- 
ciency, of my course ! How little have I done since I 
have been a minister ! I fear, awfully fear, at times, lest, 
after having preached to others, I should myself fail of 
heaven. 

I must be more spiritual, more diligent and prayerful. 
Come, Lord^ and warm this languid heart ! 

Sept. 18. — One week ago this very hour, my dear 
Bro. Davis of Hartford exchanged his earthly toils for a 
state of rest and a work of praise in heaven. The ac- 
count of his last hours is delightfully cheering. This 
makes four of my dear brethren in the ministry who have 
gone in the midst of usefulness, from important stations, 
during the last year. King, Freeman, Jacobs, and Davis 



Rev. yohn yennmgs. 59 

are all, I trust, in the sacred choir. No more wrestlings 
in the closet or pleadings in the pulpit, but a harp of 
gold, and the Blessed employments of heaven. O my 
soul ! hear the thrilling tones of these jDrovidences : " Be 
ye also ready." 

Dec. 8. — Another year of my short span has fled, 
and left me to wonder at its flight. Oh, what have I done 
to distinguish this year, but to sin .^ Twenty-eight years 
have borne their report to eternity, and what a report ! 
Surely, all my hops is in the merits of Christ. Lord, 
help me to feel it ! This year may I do with more dili- 
gence and delight the will of my heavenly Father ! 

Sabbath, Jan. 25, 1837. — Have enjo3'ed this morning 
rather uncommon calmness and earnestness of desire 
for the good of the souls of men. May the day be one 
of great comfort ! 

May 27. — A sweet view of the Saviour of sinners 
this morning. A heavenly feast. Oh that I may not 
lose the relish of it all my days ! 

May. 28 — This day I am again to stand in that awful 
place, the pulpit. Oh for the preparation of heart which 
is necessary for acceptance and usefulness. 

July 10. — This evening much depressed and discour- 
aged, because iniquity abounds, and the love of many 
waxes cold. When will the current of sin be turned, 
and the kingdom of God be built up in our midst ? 

Aug. I. — Have awfully backslidden in heart froin 
God ! Too little study, too little prayer. O Lord ! 
from thee cometh my help. 

Aug. 2. — Had some pleasant intercourse with Heaven 
this morning, and hav^e felt the hallowed influence all 
day. 



6o Memorial of 

Dec. 8. — The twenty-ninth year of m}^ life has gone. 
It has been marked by the goodness of God to me ; but 
that goodness has been requited by ingratitude. When 
shall my inconstant heart fix itself on its chief good ? 

Dec. 30. — Have some sense of the distance of my 
soul from God, of the difficulties of my work, and of the 
awful charge which is resting upon me. Lord, make me 
humble and happy and successful in my great work ! 

March i, 1838. — Have been confined at home by a 
severe cold for some days. How frail I am ! But God 
is good. He has been pleased to pour out his Spirit, 
and, as I hope, to convert a number of my hearers to 
the love of the truth. O my soul, magnify the Lord ! 
May this be a prelude to a more plentiful shower ! Lord, 
give us a spirit of prayer, and dependence on thee ! 

March 29. — This morning was much affected while 
reading the account of the Saviour's advent, and lifting 
up my heart in prayer. I desire the salvation of souls ; 
but how little do I look for it ! Self is the idol to which 
I am prone to bow. Yet I long for more devotedness 
to my Master. 

Nov. 4. — Have enjoyed something to-day in trying 
to set forth the example of Jesus for the imitation of my 
hearers. But how short I fall of such a character my- 
self ! Help me, blessed Saviour, to be from this time 
more engaged for thee. 

Nov. 5. — '- Too indifferent ! When will my light shine 
steadily like the sun, not fitfully, like the flash of the 
meteor ? Lord, make me a consistent Christian minister ! 
Dec. 8. — This day I am thirty years old. How ap- 
propriately is life called a vapor, a shadow, a hand- 
breadth ! Probably the greater part of my life is past. 



Rev. John yennings, 61 

Solemn thought ! How little have I clone for Christ and 
my generation ! The world will hardly know, at this rate, 
that I have been in it, but for my sins and indolence. If 
God shall spare my life this year, I do determine to be 
more diligent and faithful. Jesus, Master, help me to 
live to tiiy glory ! Grant me strength and grace to do 
thy will ! And should this year end my life, may I, 
though most unworthy, be accepted of thee, to spend 
eternity beneath thy smile ! 

Jan. I, 1839. — In the good providence of God, I am 
spared to behold the commencement of another year. 
Siiall I see its close ? and, if so, how will the retrospect 
look ? If not, will my soul be happy in the bosom of 
God ? Oh for diligence, perseverance, and faith ! 

March 12. — This is a day of distinguished favor 
from the Lord, in the birth of our second child and 
daughter. What a rush of tender feeling overwhelms 
me as I gaze on this new object of love ! She is brought 
into a world of sin, temptation, and sorrow, to suffer and 
die ; but not, I earnestly hope, till she has glorified God on 
the earth. We know not what is before her, an innocent, 
helpless thing. But she is in a world over which God 
reigns in perfect wisdom, holiness, and love. To him 
I desire to commit her for time and eternity. Oh for 
grace to do my duty toward both my children. The 
Lord bless, sanctify, and save them both ! Oh, this 
family circle ! I shudder when I think what death must 
one day do in it ! I know I deserve to lose my beloved 
ones ; but the Lord is merciful, and in him is all my 
hope. May I trust in. him, and not be afraid ! 

Dec. 8 — This is the Sabbath, and a day of interest. 
I have arisen at four o'clock, and enjoyed a sweet season 



62 Memorial of 

of confession and prayer. Oh that the day may be a 
Sabbath to my famishing soul ! It is also my birthday 
anniversary, and calls for a solemn review of the past, 
and holy resolutions for the future. I do feel desirous 
of doing more this year, if spared. I therefore resolve, 
that, the Lord helping me, I will rise earlier, pray more, 
study more, and labor more, than during any previous 
year of my life. Evening. — Preached with unusual 
liberty to-day. Hope the appai'ent conviction of many 
will be lasting. Lord, give the increase ! 

Jan. I, 1840. — Another year has gone, — how 
rapidly ! May this be a year of the right hand of the 
Most High ! 

Jan. II. — Have been reading the Scriptures and 
Doddrido:e's " Rise and Progress." Excellent book ! 
Disire to be prepared for the morrow. Oh for faith in 
God, and strength to do his work ! 

Jan. 12. — Exceedingly depressed, and grieved to 
think how small a matter keeps Christians from their 
duty. When shall Zion arise ? Let me strengthen my- 
self in the Lord ! 

Dec. 7, 1840. — Have been for some time in doubt 
whether it is best to keep any record of my religious feel- 
ings. Have decided, on the whole, that it is best to 
continue to do so. 

Dec. 10. — Religious feelings rather low. Anxiety for 
the cause very great. Strong desire for the revival of 
the Lord's work. Zion, I know, is his. He has pleasure 
in his servants. Oh for evidence that I am his ! Jesus, 
grant it ! 

Jan. 29, 1841. — A most interesting day. Another 
child is committed to my charge. A son ! What shall 



Rev. yohn yearnings. 63 

be the history of this little innocent, thrown upon this 
changing world ? I desire to commit him and all my 
dear ones to the Shepherd of Israel, who is able to keep 
us all. 

The six years in Grafton were most delightful 
years to him ; and he never ceased to love the 
dear people from whom he parted in sadness, only 
because a new harvest was whitening and waving 
in fairest beauty, waiting for the willing reaper's 
hand. From the journal : — 

Grafton, Dec. 12, 1841. — An interesting day. 
Preached in Worcester to the new interest. A second 
church is about to be formed there. A good prospect. 
A desire is expressed that I should be their pastor. I 
know not what is duty. My clear people here I love ; 
but there seems to be a wide door open for usefulness 
there. Lord, decide this trying question ! 

Dec. 14. — Yet undecided. Wish to do right. 
Somewhat inclined to go. If it be clearly duty, I will 
not shrink from the labor and responsibility before me. 

Dec. 15. — Received to-day the very full and unani- 
mous expression of desire from the Second Baptist 
Church in Worcester, that I would become their pastor. 
Lord, what wilt thou have me to do ? May my steps be 
ordered aright ! 

Dec. 16. — Very much distressed lest I may do 
wrong. Went to meeting expecting to say something to 
my dear brethren about going to Worcester, but could 
not. Oh that I may be useful somewhere ! 



64 Memorial of 

Dec. 17. — A stormy day. Spent in my study. 
Have thought much of the great question. The work is 
important, and I am but an earthen vessel. I ahiiost 
think I must go ; but how can I ? Blessed Jesus, guide 
me aright! 

Jan. I, 1842. — How fast time rolls away ! How 
soon eternity comes on ! Hav^e this day sent my an- 
swer to the church in Worcester, I feel that duty bids 
me go. This has been a great trial. Lord, send me 
not up alone ! Go with me, I beseech thee ! Let me 
lean on thee ! 

Sabbath, Jan. 9. — At AVorcester. A good day. 
Much feeling. Some hoping, and some anxious. Oh for 
God's work in that place ! Cannot live there without 
Jesus. 

Sabbath, Jan. 16. — A solemn day. Great liberty in 
preaching the Word. 

Sabbath, Jan. 30. — -This day I close my labors as 
pastor of this church. It has been a day of great trial. 
Nearly six years I have been trying to preach Christ 
here, but how unfaithfully ! Oh that my life, if spared, 
may be more devoted and holy ! My heart bleeds for 
my beloved flock. But I have felt that it was best to 
leave them. 

Not one of his people desired him to leave them ; 
and, vi^hen he removed to Worcester, he carried 
with him this testimonial : -^ 

We trust, also, that many souls have been converted 
here through your instrumentalit}', and that your labors 
in Grafton here, under God, caused many rejoicings in 



Rev, yohn Jennings. 



6^ 



heaven. And we also by this certify to those with 
whom in the providence of God you may be placed, our 
fellowship for and attachment to you as a minister of 
the gospel, and our hearty commendation of you, as 
such, to the churches generally. 

6* 




VII. 




N the 6th of February, 1842, my father 
preached to the new church in Worcester 
^ from the text, ''In the name of our God 
^ will we set up our banner." This sermon 
was often alluded to by those who heard it, and 
long remembered with great interest. 

With ripened experience, yet with humility and 
self-distrust, he engaged most heartily in the new 
enterprise ; and those who knew him at this period 
need not be told how he won his way into the 
hearts of the young church, who had, with one 
voice, called him to be their pastor. During the 
first year, his labors were wonderfully blessed. 
The church tripled in numbers, the additions being 
mostly new converts. The interest spread through 
all the churches in the town ; and such a work of 
grace was wrought as had not been known before, 
the memory of which will be cherished with hum- 
ble thankfulness by all who then saw the stately 



Rev, yohn yennings, 67 

goings of the Lord, as long as they remain on 
earth. 

Ardent as his zeal had been for the cause he 
loved, he seemed here to enter into his work with 
still greater earnestness. His people nobly sus- 
tained him, standing by and holding up his hands, 
strengthening and encouraging him in every possi- 
ble way ; and he, on his part, was able to do much 
for their upbuilding and establishment. His con- 
gregation, in the town-ball, frequently numbered 
two thousand. 

Feb. 6, 1842, he writes, — 

This day commenced my labors in Worcester. A 
solemn day. The Word was sweet, the worship and 
ordinances most delightful. Oh for grace to prepare me 
for the great work before me ! I must be kept by the 
power of God, and assisted by his abundant grace, in 
order to accomplish his will. I long for humility as a 
garment ! 

Feb. 13. — A good day. Great solemnity in the 
house of God. I have a strong hope that God will 
appear in his glory, and build up Zion. 

June 13. — Since the last date, my hands and heart 
have been full of the work of God. A precious out- 
pouring of the Spirit. Have baptized sixty-one willing 
converts. What a blessed task to feed these lambs ! 
This has been a good day. Lord, send us thy salvation ! 

Dec. 8. — My birthday. This has been the most 
pleasant year of my ministry because the most useful. 
God has blessed the church with large additions. Peace 
and harmony have prevailed. 



68 Memorial of 

Dec. 28. — This day our church is one year old. A 
good meeting. Great has been the Lord's mercy to us ! 
We would be grateful ! 

The year 1843 was marked by severe domestic 
affliction, of which the accounts in the journal 
are most touching. So tender and affectionate a 
nature as he possessed is given but rarely. His 
great delight in his children, his constant self- 
denial for their welfare and comfort, and his grief 
at their death, were such as few could know, and 
none could appreciate, who had not lived in the 
same family with him year after year. 

From the journal : — 

Jan. I, 1843. — Another year has passed away like a 
dream. What have I done to save the souls of men 1 
Oh for the presence of the Lord ! Some tokens for 
good. Lord, come and save us ! Sickness is in my 
family. Emma, my sweet child, is ill j but I hope she 
may soon be better. 

Jan. 2. — Some anxiety about my child. Lord, inter- 
pose ! 

Jan. 3. — Preached this evening at Shrewsbury. One 
soul very anxious. 

Jan. 4. — Emma is worse. Fear she may not live. Can 
I give her up ? 

Jan. 6. — Still over the bed of my child. Feel that 
she must die. Oh for grace to say, " Thy wall be done ! " 
She is an innocent, lovely thing. Her sufferings wring 
my heart. 



Rev. yohn yenniftgs. 69 

Jan. 7. — Fatal day ! Death has broken in upon our 
little circle. Emma Judson, after severe suffering for 
six days, sweetly fell asleep in the arms of her Saviour, 
at half-past one this morning. Be still, my heart ! it is 
God. Sweet flower ! she has gone to bloom in paradise. 
But how mysterious are the ways of Providence ! Both 
my other children are sick ; but I trust they may be 
spared. 

Jan. 8. — Funeral of my child. Oh, what a Sabbath ! 
Felt calm, but deeply afflicted. On. returning, find my 
little boy woi'se. Fear he must go too. How can I bear 
it? 

Jan. 9. — My little son no better. Still, I hope. 

Jan. 12. — Again death has been here. After great 
suffering, our little John Howard left us about six this 
-evening. My heart is sad and desolate. What an awful 
silence in my dwelling ! Lord, support me, or I must 
sink ! Sweet babes, they are now delivered from the 
sins and sorrows of this mortal state. Am I prepared to 
meet them in the bright world of joy? 

Jan. 14. — Committed to the tomb my darling boy. 
Thankful that one of my children is spared. Desire that 
this affliction may be for my best good, 

Jan. 22. — The last week has been one of loneliness 
indeed. All seems like a dream. Preached with some 
comfort to-day. 

Jan. 27. — Feel the loss of my children very much, 
but am greatly comforted by the presence of Jesus. 

Jan. 29. — Sabbath. Much freedom in preaching. 
Think my hold on this world is less tenacious. Desire 
to feel that health and friends are in the hands of Him 
who is ^'too wise to err, too good to be unkind." God 



70 Memorial of 

has left my home desolate ; but it is so sweet to think of 
my little loved ones as safe in heaven ! I would feel the 
sacred attraction to set my affections on things above. 
God is yet loading me with favors. 

Feb. 5. — Oh, the loneliness I feel ! My little treas- 
ures are in the tomb, and I trust their happy spirits are 
in heaven \ but I feel their loss most keenly. 

Have preached to-day with some satisfaction. 

Oh for more faithfulness ! 

May I. — Since the last date, God has been pleased 
to afflict me still. My wife has been ill with a long and 
discouraging fever, and my daughter has been brought to 
the verge of the grave. But God has, in mercy, restored 
them. To him I commit my way. Yesterday, and the 
Sabbath previous, I had great delight in presenting the 
gospel. May it be the power of God ! Some have re- 
cently found peace in believing. Some are anxious. 
Lord, come and work for us. 

On the 8th of June, the corner-stone of the new 
church was laid. The pastor's address on that oc- 
casion was one of his happiest efforts. His heart 
rejoiced in the prosperity of his people, and longed 
to see still greater things. 

From the journal : — 

June 8, 1843. — ^ solemn day. ■ At eight o'clock we 
laid the corner-stone of our new house of worship, with 
the usual services. May it rise, and be filled with hum- 
ble worshippers ! 

Aug. 2. — Through God's great goodness we have this 
day entered our new dwelling-house. As a family, we 



Rev, yoJui yenniitgs. 71 

ought to be very grateful. My wife's health is better. 
I have to-day dedicated my study by solemn prayer. 
May I live more to the glory of God ! Lord, give me 
diligence, faith, and great perseverance. 

Sept. 10. — A good day. Enjoyed a sweet nearness 
to God. Great delight in preaching. Desire for God's 
work in the salvation of souls. Dearest Saviour, hasten 
hither !: 

Oct. 14. — Sad is the report of this day. Received a 
letter containing the account of the death of my mother 
and my oldest brother. Is it so, that I shall no more 
see her who bore me, and watched over my tender years ? 
How fast the ranks of my friends are thinning out ! The 
majority will soon be in heaven. 

Dec. 3. — A good day. Lord, revive thy work in the 
midst of the years ! 

Dec. 8. — T am now thirty-five. Death has made sad 
ravages around me, and in my family, the past year. I 
have to mourn two sweet angel-children. Why must 
they, so necessary to my happiness, be so early removed 
hence ? It is God, and I will not murmur; but my thoughts 
seldom forget them. My mother and brother and sister 
have also gone this year. My wife and daughter have 
been sick, but are yet spared. Oh for gratitude and 
grace to finish my work ! 

Dec. 10. — Sabbath ! Day of sacred rest, for thee I 
wait ! This day have preached of the perfect law of 
liberty, — the gospel of Christ. Feel a great desire to 
see the Lord's work revive. Some encouragement. 

Dec. 31. — The last day of 1843. The last Sabbath 
in the town-hall. Enjoyed much in preaching. There 
is a sjDirit of prayer in the church, and some are anxious. 



72 Memorial of 

I long for grace to begin the New Year in earnest work 
for God and souls ! 

Jan. 4, 1844. — This day we have entered our new 
house of worship. It is a most convenient and beauti- 
ful house. Desired to give it to God. Oh that he may 
there abide and reign, and fill it with his glory ! 

June I. — This day another daughter is given to my 
family. The Lord has afflicted us sorely : still he is 
merciful. May this child be fitted to glorify him on 
earth, and to join the sweet cherubs he has taken from us 
to adorn another sphere. Bless the Lord, O my soul ! 

Sabbath, Dec. 22. — A good da}^ Preached with 
pleasure, and, I hope, to some profit. 

A good meeting this evening. Some confession, and 
a spirit of prayer. May God bless us ! 

Oct. 26, 1845. — Have for sotpe time made no record 
of my work ; but this evening am inclined to re-commence. 
The past few months there has been a state of indiffer- 
ence in the church ; and I know not when it will be other- 
wise. But the Lord reigns ; and blessed be my Rock ! 
Considerable freedom to-day in preaching Jesus. At 
four o'clock preached at the prison. Who hath made 
me to differ from those who have offended against the 
laws of God and man ? 

Dec. 8. — This day I am thirty-seven. It seems but 
a day since I was licensed to preach : yet it is nineteen 
years ; and how little have I done ! 

Dec. 28. — This is the anniversary of the constitution 
of our church. A review of our history for four years is 
full of interest. God has been good, exceedingly good, 
to me and to my people. But we have been ungrateful 
indeed. May we have more of the spirit of the Saviour ! 



Rev, John yennmgs, 73 

Jan. 4, 1846. — A blessed clay. Baptism of three. 
Oh for more to come ! Think my little daughter is in- 
quiring the way of salvation. This is more than I 
deserve. Some indications of good among the people. 

Dec. 8. — Another year I have lived and labored on, 
yet how unfit for life's great business ! Have preached 
every Sabbath but one. God has been very good. 

Jan. 7, 1847. — Four years to-day since my sweet 
little Emma Judson left us for the Saviour's bosom. 
How desolate was then this heart ! Indeed, it has been 
lonely ever since, even in the midst of my sweet family. 
But He who gave has taken his own. 

Jan. 21. — God has given to my arms a little son. 
What will be his course and destiny ? May I have 
grace to do all I can for him during his stay, and to 
give him up at the Bestower's call. 

June I. — To-day little Anna is three years old. She 
has suffered much, and makes large draughts upon my 
time and sympathies. O Lord, do as shall please thee ! 

Aug. 10. — My soul is in trouble. To-day Anna was 
taken in a fit ; and I fear she is soon to die. I dare not 
ask for her life, lest it should be only suffering. She 
has been under a cloud. The Lord's will be done. It 
is hard to see her suffer. 

Aug. 10. — Still Anna suffers. I have no hope of 
her relief but by death. 

Aug. 12. — This morning, at quarter of four, our little 
angel took her upward flight. It is the Lord. The 
question is now settled whether her mind is to expand 
on earth or in heaven. She has gone to the arms of 
Jesus. But we mourn ! 

Aug. 13. — To-day we have laid in her quiet grave the 



74 Memorial of 

angel of our house. We miss her everywhere. Lord, 
support and comfort us, especially her afflicted mother ! 

Sabbath, Aug. 15. — Have been favored to-day by 
hearing the gospel preached by Brethren Burbank and 
Dodge. 

Aug. 16. — Feel the desolation which death has made 
more and more every hour. 

Dec. 28. — The sixth anniversary of Pleasant-street 
Church. Lord, revive us ! I earnestly desire a deep 
work of grace in my own heart, and among this dear 
people. 

Jan. 26, 1848. ■ — Some interest in the evening meet- 
ing. Will the Lord come and bless us ? 

Jan. 30. — Preached with a good degree of comfort. 
Distressed to see members of the church forgetful of 
their solemn obligations. Lord, all will come to deso- 
lation unless thou return again ! Have been reading 
Gurney on " Love to God." Excellent work ! Also the 
" Life of Jeremy Taylor." 

Jan. 31. — Lord, save from dissensions ! 

Feb. I. — Distressed for Zion. 

Feb. 2. — Went to Ashland. Some confidence in 
God. 

Feb. 4. — Church-meeting. Some feeling ; but we are 
far from God. AVhen will he revive us that we may 
praise him ? 

Feb. 8. — Visited this afternoon among my people. 
Have very little religious enjoyment. Long for more 

grace. 

Aug. I. — Finished, to-day, the reading of" An Earnest 

Ministry," by J. A. James. Have been profited by the 
book. Who should be an earnest man if not the Chris- 
tian minister? 



Rev, yohn yennings, 75 

Am again in affliction. My dear little John Carlos is 
very sick ; and I fear he may not recover. Can I lay , 
away in the grave this treasure also ? I deserve it all. If 
it were left to me, I should not dare to decide the 
question. The Lord raise him, if consistent with his 
will ! I ask for patience and resignation ! 

Sept. 10. — The anniversary of my ordination. Did 
not the Lord ratify that solemn work ? 

Oct. 22. — For many painful weeks we have hoped 
and feared for our darling: bov. I have now but little 
hope. Can I spare that sweet, speaking face, those 
large, expressive eyes, and lay my treasure away in the 
grave ? A few hours, I fear, will end his life ; but his 
sufferings will also end. 

Oct. 23, 1848. — This evening, at a quarter of ten, 
our sweet little sufferer left us. The fourth child has 
thus been taken. Lord, help us to say, " Thy will be 
done "! Why, if this be for my sins, must my dear wife 
and dauMiter suffer t 

Oct. 25. — We have opened the grave, and laid our 
darling to rest beside his sister Anna. Thus have we 
laid four in two graves. Sweet spot ! But they are not 
there. May we be profited by these severe strokes of a 
Father's hand ! 

Oct. 26. — We start this morning on our sad journey 
to Connecticut, — sad for what we leave, and for what 
we expect to find. Our mother Keyes is probably not 
living, having been very sick for weeks. 

Oct. 28. — Yes: mother died the same evening with 
John Carlos. Oh, what deep waters are these ! Lord, 
help! 

Nov. 12. — Interesting day. My dear, my only child 



76 Memorial of 

living on earth, was this day baptized by these hands, 
.and admitted to the church. For such favor in the midst 
of sorrows I would be grateful. Lord, keep her in thy 
fear and service forever ! 

Dec. 8. — My fortieth birthday ! Is it possible ? And 
yet I have hardly begun to live. 

Jan. 7, 1849. — Comfortable day in preaching. Six 
years to-day our dear Emma left us. Now four are gone. 
Will they greet me, and shall we sing together, in 
heaven ? Lord, grant it ! 

Feb, 14. — A little hope that God is about to bless 
us, even us. Will he come? 

March 21. — Have been of late at an awful distance 
from God. Only now and then has a gleam of hope 
arisen. But I am brought to a solemn pause. Most of 
the day I have spent in solemn, searching thought, with 
the Bible in hand. Think I have a little evidence that 
God's mercy is not clean gone forever. Lord, according 
to the multitude of thy tender mercies, blot out my trans- 
gressions. On thee I rest my sinful self 

March 22. — Some glimpse of pardon. I pray for the 
deliverance God alone can give ! 

March 24. — To-morrow is the Sabbath. How can I, 
with this polluted, wayward heart, again stand forth, as 
God's ambassador ? May the blood of atonement make 
me whiter than snow ! 

March 25. — Preached at New-England Village. 
Some precious views of Christ and the truth. Lord, 
make me more faithful. The people listened earnestly, 
and I hope for good. Oh, take not thy Holy Spirit from 
me ! 

June 3. — More than usual tenderness in my closet 
and in public duty, and some of the joy of true repent- 



Rev. yohn yenning s, "]"] 

ance. I feel that the present low state of religion among 
my people is greatly my fault. May I, at the foot of the 
cross, receive the smile of my bleeding Lord, that I 
may be more faithful to my own soul and to my people ! 
Sept. 1 6. — Fifteen years I have stood on Zion's walls 
as a watchman. How have I failed to reach the standard 
I at first set up ! I have been blessed with outward 
jDrosperity ; but the Divine Spirit has not dwelt in me as 
richly as he might had I been more faithful. 

His life in Worcester was a period of unremit- 
ting labor. His people knew that their pastor was 
ready to attend their call at all hours of the day or 
night. In all their afflictions, he was afflicted. 
His ready sympathy and warm heart made him 
most welcome in the room of sickness, by the 
death-bed, and at the funeral service. His office 
on such occasions was performed with great feel- 
ing, and with such acceptance as made the mourn- 
ers his firm friends ever afterward. Doubtless the 
severe affliction through which he had himself 
passed prepared him especially to comfort others 
with the comfort wherewith he himself was com- 
forted of God. So great was his sympathy, that he 
would come home quite exhausted after stich labors. 

Seasons of rejoicing, too, — the wedding, the 
social circle, the weekly prayer-meeting, and all 
occasions of public interest, — found him ready to 
enter into the spirit of his people, and to communi- 
cate to them his own hearty enjoyment of every 
thing enjoyable. 



78 Memorial of 

Through long, sickly summers in Worcester, 
he remained in the city ; and, in the absence of 
his brother-clergymen, often ministered to their 
parishioners, attending sometimes three funerals 
in a day. He regularly wrote one or two sermons 
a week ; and numerous pastoral and public duties, 
together with his unselfish devotion to his family in 
the frequent illness of one or more of its members, 
employed all his remaining strength. 

During twelve years, there was not one Sabbath 
when he did not consider himself able to preach. 
Yet all this time his health was far from robust. It 
was the opinion of a very skilful physician that the 
symptoms of the disease which terminated his life 
had begun to show themselves in his early man- 
hood. He suffered frequently from distressing 
attacks of sick-headache, and occasionally from 
seasons of sinking and faintness, similar to those 
which were frequent during the last few months of 
his life. Yet he was able, by his energy and deter- 
mination, and his eager desire to serve his people, 
to accomplish more for the Master than many a 
strong and healthy man. 

Extract from a letter written in Worcester when 
his family were absent : — 

T\yr 117 July 6, 1845. 

My dear Wife, — j » tj 

" O solitude ! where are the charms," &c. 

You remember I have often said that my home was 
peculiarly grateful after the labors of the Sabbath. Here 



Rev. yohn Jennings, 79 

I am in this pleasant place, on this delightful evening ; 
and yet to me there is nobody in Worcester. Still I am 
well off; have good health, and a kind people. 

We had a good celebration of the Fourth. I ad- 
dressed a crowded audience in the Old South Church. 
Yesterday we had a good church-meeting, and a delight- 
ful baptism to-day. This morning I rose at a quarter of 
four, and went out to see about the place for baptism ; 

then to Mr. L 's ; then to breakfast. The day has 

been a busy one ; and, as I have now been up eighteen 
hours and a half, I must say good-night. 

From the journal : — 

Dec. 8, 1849. — Have recently tendered my resigna- 
tion of the pastorship of this church. This has been 
brought about by the impression of a few of the church 
that a change was desirable, to increase the interest and 
heal the divisions. I fear it will not be for the good of 
the cause, but see no other course for me. 

Sabbath, Dec. 10. — Feel for my dear church. Many 
grieve at my leaving them. 

Dec. 30. — Preached my last sermon as pastor of 
Pleasant-street Church. Felt tenderly in preaching. 
Many tears were shed. The Lord ov^errule it for good ! 

After relinquishing the pastorate at Worcester, 
he accepted an appointment as district secretary 
of the American Tract Society, in whose work he 
had long felt a deep interest. The change of labor 
proved a benefit ; and he was thus fitted to enter a 
new field with recruited energies. 



8o Memorial. 

From the journal: — 

Jan. 6, 1851 (Sabbath). — Preached at Millbury. 
Spoke for the Tract-cause. Some interest was felt. It 
is a great work. Lord help me! Thought with great 
solicitude of my recent Hock, and with regret that I have 
been forced to leave them. 

Jan, 16. — Sinful and sinning, yet some faint breath- 
ings of desire after God. Oh for victory over self! De- 
vote me, Lord, to thy blessed will ! 

Jan. 20. — Preached at Salem. Good attention to 
the Word. But I fear I am not fit to preach, and that 
I but poorly advocate the Tract-cause. 

Sept. 10. — I have been unfaithful : still, I hope I was 
not mistaken in taking the field sixteen years ago to-day. 
May I renew my diligence and courage ! 

Dec. 31. — The last evening of the year. I have 
reason to blush at my sinfulness ; yet have some reason 
to believe I have not labored in vaui. May I begin the 
new year with a new spirit ! Have a desire that this 
year may witness a purer, happier, and more peaceful 
life! 

Feb. 7, 185 1. — To-day we have received mercy of 
the Lord. Another daughter is given to us. May she 
be the Lord's ! I have been sick for several weeks. 

Sept. 10. — Seventeen years since, the great honor of 
the ministry was conferred upon me, so unworthy. How 
poorly have I served the good cause and the good 
Master ! Would that for the year to come I might 
make full proof of my ministry ! But all my hope is in 
God. 




VIII. 

D/i N November, 185 1, my father received a iman- 
.1 imous call to Fitchburg, and on the 2d of 
^^^ December he began a three-years' ministry 
)^ of unusual success. On the last-named 
date he writes, — 

An important change has taken place in my cn-cum- 
stances. I have accepted an urgent call to this place. 
Oh, how important the step ! And what shall be the 
result, the Lord only can tell. In him I hope and 
trust. 

The entries in the journal at this time are but 
few : and, at all times, they give but a faint idea of 
the work he was accomplishing ; but the full 
record is on high. 

The church was a strong one, and under his min- 
istry it grew stronger and stronger. Among the 
members were five aged saints, in whose prayers 
and sympathy he took great delight, and to whom 



82 Memorial of 

he looked for counsel, comfort, and strength. 
They have all long since fallen asleep ; but the 
memory of Dea. Crocker, Father and Mother God- 
dard, Mother Tufts, and Mother Farwell, is blessed. 
My father esteemed it a peculiar privilege that his 
ministry occurred while they were able to attend 
the Sabbath service and the prayer-meetings, where 
their presence and their devotion seemed to hallow 
the place. 

In the winter of 1853-54, the church enjoyed 
what my father often called " a most precious revi- 
val." On eight successive communion Sabbaths 
he baptized some rejoicing converts. The stream 
which flowed hard by the church of-God witnessed 
again and again the triumphant joy of pastor and 
people, as one after another received the blessed 
ordinance. On one of these occasions there were 
six Marys ; and, as the last one rose from the 
sacred waters with a radiant face, the pastor said, 
with his usual sweet, grave earnestness, " I have 
now baptized six Marys. Are there any more 
who will choose the good part } " Two more 
Marys were so impressed at that moment, that 
they offered themselves for baptism the next 
month. 

During eight months, there was an inquiry-meet- 
ing at the pastor's study every Monday evening,- 
when the power of God was present in no small 
degree. The Church, too, seemed to awake, and put 
on her beautiful garments. 



Rev, yohn yen7ti7igs. 8 



J 



Once more my father had the pleasure of seeing 
a new house of worship arise. On the last Sabbath 
in the dear old church, where for twenty-three 
years the prayers and praises of that eminently 
praying people had ascended, the sermon was a 
most impressive one ; and many will remember how 
the pastor read the closing hymn, — "There is^ a 
house not made with hands." 

Prosperity still attended them in the new edifice, 
which was dedicated March i, 1854. But, after a 
time, a root of bitterness springing up, troubled 
the pastor and his excellent people, causing 
him to seek another field, and inducing them to 
consent to it for his sake. He carried with him 
the deep regret, warm regard, and great respect of 
the whole town. He had been especially useful 
there in promoting a spirit of concord between 
the different religious denominations. He was on 
the friendliest terms with the pastors, and greatly 
beloved by the members of all the other churches. 
Dearly as he loved his own church, he loved Christ's 
cause more, and ever strove to lead the servants of 
our Lord, though bearing different names, to united 
labors for him. There was a series of union ser- 
vices of four churches on Sabbath evenings, when 
the four ministers sat together in the pulpit. Each 
one, in turn, held forth the word of life, and the 
blessing descended abundantly upon the crowded 
assembly. 



84 MemoiHal of 

From the journal : — 

Sept. 10, 1853. — Ordination-day. Lord, help me to 
be more tliine in heart, as well as by profession. 

Oct. 9. — Our wedding-day. The time seems like a 
dream. Lord^ spare us all to each other, and give us at 
length a place in thy heavenly kingdom ! 

Dec. 8. — Forty-two years old. I feel that ray life is 
poorly answering life's great end. Lord, help me to be 
more consecrated to thee ! 

Extract from a letter written at Saratoga 
Springs : — 

July 15, 1854. 

My dear Wife, — This has been a most lovely day, 
and I have spent quite a portion of it in company with 
Bro. Hutchinson. He has suffered greatly the year 
past. Surely I ought not to complain. When I look 
upon the sick, the halt, and the blind, who crowd to this 
Bethesda, my heart is ready to say, " Surely goodness 
and mercy have followed me all the days of my life." 
Ranged by the side of the path are crippled men, and 
blind and piteous women, asking for the charity of the 
passer. The great men are coming, — Dr. Fuller, Dr. 
Hawes, Dr. Stow, and many others. My health — the 
great object of my coming — is better. They tell me I do 
not look so careworn, and am gaining flesh. I must lay 
down my pen, and go out for a walk with my good Pres- 
byterian brother. 

Saturday morning. — Bro. Warren spent an hour or 
two with me yesterday, fresh from the Rochester anni- 
versaries. The Sabbath here is not what it should be. 



Rev. yoJm Jennings. 85 

It is a hard place to maintain religion. Nothing but 
imperious duty would lead one to be a pastor here. 

Sabbath evening. — Have heard a glorious sermon 
from Dr. Fuller, — the very marrow of the gospel. 

I am sorry to be away from the sick and dying ; but 
God will be with them. I long for my pleasant home. 
God has favored us wonderfully. May we meet again in 
peace ! Yours devotedly. 

From the journal : — 

Sept. 10, 1854. — Ordination-day. Work enough. 
Oh, how poorly done ! 

Dec. 8. — My forty-sixth birthday. The .last year has 
been one of poorer health than any during my ministry. 
I know not what is for me, whether life or death ; but I 
desire to be the Lord's, living or dying. 

Feb. 7, 1855. — This day my darling Alice is four 
years old. Will she live and be a good girl ? ' Lord, 
take her to thy care and love ! 

April 29. — This day I close my pastorate at Fitch- 
burg. I leave the church in great affliction. Lord, ap- 
pear for them, and direct me ! 

At a special meeting called to act on his resigna- 
tion, the following resolutions were unanimously 
adopted : — 

Resolved, That we have learned with deep regret that 
the continued ill health of our pastor^ and other causes 
beyond his control, have led him to tender his resigna- 
tion as pastor of this church. 

Resolved, That we most cordially and heartily express 
to him our gratitude for the faithful manner in which he 



86 Memorial of 

has dispensed to ns the word of life, and for all the 
kindly offices, so cheerfully and faithfully performed by 
him, bel*onging to the pastoral relation. 

Resolved^ That the present state of our Christian 
brotherhood, now so apparent among the different 
churches of this town, and also the marked outward and 
spiritual prosperity enjoyed by this church for the past 
tw6 years, are attributable, in no small degree, to the 
Christian urbanity and faithful efforts of our present 
pastor. 

Resolved, That while providence and duty may seem 
to call for a separation, yet we will pledge to our late 
pastor our gratitude and affection for the past, and our 
earnest prayers for his temporal and spiritual prosperity 
in the future. 

J. S. Brown, "> 

S. A, Wheeler, >- Comitiittee. 

L. H. Bradford, ) 

In May, 1855, ^^ returned to the beloved Tract 
Society, and again labored as district secretary 
for nearly four years. He removed his residence 
to Newton Centre ; and it gave him great joy to be 
once more near the Institution where he had pre- 
pared himself for the ministry. The first time the 
old familiar sound of the bell on "the Hill " fell on 
his ear, he said, " That is the sweetest music to 
me, it is so dear from early association ! " 

He took great pleasure in the society of several 
brethren in the ministry who were located there, and 
especially in that of the senior professor, whom he 
always called " his professor," and to whose kind aid 



Rev. yohn yennings, 87 

he owed it, that, in many a time of discouragement 
during his course of study, he did not entirely 
despair. He never forgot the service then rendered 
him, by which he was fitted to serve the Master 
more efficiently than he could otherwise have 
done. With his peculiarly sensitiye temperament, 
the depressing consciousness of an imperfect prepa- 
ration would have impaired his courage and con- 
fidence, and thus his usefulness. There was reason 
indeed, then, why my father, to the end of his life, 
gratefully loved and honored this kind friend and 
instructor. Almost his last request was, that Dr. 
Ripley should take part in his funeral service. 
Dec. 8, 1855, he writes, — 

" To-day I am forty-seven. Not many more birthdays, 
at most, can I see. May the remaining years be the 
Lord's ! " 

Jan. I, 1856. — What shall be the history of this year ? 
Of myself, of my family, my work, the great cause ? 
God knoweth ! 

Dec. 8. — Forty-eight years old. Somewhat discour- 
aged as to my work, more as to my heart. Lord, direct ! 
Let me not err ! Show me a plain path ! If this year 
I live, may it be for thee ! If I die, may it be in thee ! 

Jan. 7, 1857. — The anniversary of the first visit of 
death to our family circle. What a night was that, when, 
after painful watchings, our Emma was taken to the Shep- 
herd's bosom ! Four times the stroke was inflicted ; but 
every time it was needed. How little have I profited by 
this severe discipline ! Lord, help me so to live that my 
end may be peace ! 



88 Memorial of 

Oct. 9, 1858. — Twent37-four years have we two been 
permitted to tread life's path together. How much 
longer is known only to Him who ordereth all things. 
To Him I commit myself and my family, especially her 
who is so much to me. 

Dec. 8. — This day I, through great mercy, complete 
fifty years of life. That I have been permitted to live 
half a century is to me a wonder. Oh ! how the time has 
fled, filled up with goodness and mercy on God's part, 
with sin and unfaithfulness on mine ! 

On the 26th of May, 1859, "^1 father preached 
the dedication sermon in the new church at Woon- 
socket, and was installed as pastor. Rev. Dr. 
Stearns of Newton Centre preached the sermon at 
the installation ; and Rev. Messrs. Keyser and Lin- 
coln of Providence, with several others, took part 
in the services. 

His health was very imperfect at this time ; but 
he soon endeared himself to the people, and labored 
among them for three years with great acceptance 
and many tokens of the divine blessing. 

From the journal: — 

Feb. I, 1859. — Have accepted a unanimous call to 
Woonsocket, R.L Lord, go with me ! 

VVoonsocket, April i. — Here is my abode. To-day 
my pastorate begins. Lord, give me grace ! 

The illness of his dear little Alice in Auburndale, 
at the time of his removal, caused sorrow and anxiety 



Rev. yohn J earnings. 89 

to be largely mingled with the joy he felt in again 
assuming the duties of a pastor. 

A letter writen at this time gives a glimpse into 
the heart of the pastor and father. It is matter 
of regret that so few letters have been preserved ; 
for nothing can give so just an impression of his 
habitual spirit. 

WoONSOCKET, May 23, 1859. 
My dear Wife, — What a burden your letter lifted 
from my poor jaded spirit ! I am so glad that dear, dear 
Alice is comfortable ! But how does your welcome note 
find me employed .'* Not preparing my dedication-ser- 
mon, but trying to soothe poor, almost broken, hearts. 
You will understand all when I say I am writing in the 

front-chamber at Mr. F 's ; and little Herbert is in the 

parlor below, in the icy embrace of death. I have just 
helped to prepare his beautiful form for the grave, and 
led the stricken parents in prayer to Him who alone can 
console them. The little fellow was as well and happy 
as ever until about half-past eight last evening, when he 
went into those awful convulsions of which we have 
such a bitter remembrance. After about twelve hours 
he came partly to consciousness, but sank away and died 
peacefully, " as dies the wave when storms are o'er," about 
half-past ten this morning. They had two physicians all 
night, and sent for me about four o'clock in the morning. 
I was with him until he ceased to breathe, and closed 
his eyes myself He has gone to rest; but, oh, what deso- 
lation is in this house ! I cannot describe to you the in- 
consolable grief t)f these parents. Oh that it may be 
the means of eternal blessing to their souls ! I have 
8* 



90 Memorial of 

been with them all day, and have succeeded in persuad- 
ing them to seek the rest they need, in the hope it may 
caliTf^ them. You will see that my hands and heart are 
full. But I am thankful to God that he has given me a 
nature, if not grace, to fit me for such scenes. I am feel- 
ing pretty well, and think I shall be aided to accomplish 
the usual labor of the week. The labor is nothing com- 
pared with the anxiety about my family. But I will try 
to trust them with the Lord. I must retire. Good-night, 
my darlings! "3o He giveth his beloved sleep," 

Yours more and more. 

There was something Christ-like in his sympathy 
for his people in trouble. Not content with visiting 
them and ministering to them officially, he took 
their griefs into his own heart, and bore their bur- 
dens of care and anxiety, relieving them and sooth- 
ing them in such a manner as only the loving Chris- 
tian heart, and the fullest sympathy with Him who 
can be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, 
could teach. 

May 26, 1859. — God has severely afflicted us in bring- 
ing our dear Alice near to death with scarlet fever. He 
has mercifully given us hope of her final recovery; and, 
above all, he has, I trust, given her a hope in Jesus, 

Jan. I, i860. — Preached with a good degree of com- 
fort. May this year be one of greater faithfulness, and 
larger measures of devotion and grace ! 

Sept. 10, — Twenty-six years since the hands of the 
brethren were laid upon my head in solemn ordination ! 
How little have I done ' 



Rev, yo/in yennmgs. 91 

A letter is here inserted which was written to a 
young man in the army, a member of the church, 
Lieut. E. S. Bartholomew, whose warm Christian 
affection for his pastor, no less than his lovely char- 
acter, made him greatly beloved, and sadly mourned 
when, a few months later, he gave his young life 
for the country he had so nobly served : — 

WooNSOCKET, May 20, 1861. 

My dear Brother, — We have kept ourselves in- 
formed of 3'our welfare, and have watched events with 
most intense interest. We miss you very much, but are 
proud of you and your comrades, and bless God for such 
men to defend and elevate our glorious flag. God, my 
brother, is in this movement; and I verily believe he will 
bring great good out of it to freedom and to Christ. 
We hear with pleasure of your hymns and prayers, and 
W'C never have a service without remembering you all at 
the throne of grace. Oh, may you all be indeed sol- 
diers of the cross ! 

Yesterday was a very interesting day with us. All 
Rhode Island was bowed in pra3'er for our country. I 
preached from Ps. cxviii. 6 : " The Lord is on my side ; I 
will not fear : what can man do unto me ? " In the after- 
noon the house was crow^ded at a union prayer-meeting. 
Those prayers will be heard. God will give us our coun- 
try purified. In the church w^e are as usual, except that 
the state of the country is giving us more of a spirit of 
tenderness and prayer. 

AVe are expecting to see Capt. Simpson. If he does 
not come, I shall soon write to him and others. Give our 
kind regards to them all. We have heard that you were 



9 2 Memorial. 

sick, and rejoice that you are better. AVish we could 
administer to your comfort. Hope you will take care of 
your health, and be preserved and shielded, and brought 
to us again in God's good time. Above all, may you be 
the accepted servant of Jesus our Saviour, in whom may 
we all meet ! 

He left the church in Woonsocket with great 
reluctance, when a call to another field, which 
seemed a less laborious one, made it seem to be 
his duty to remove to Westfield, Mass., — his last 
settlement, where, on many accounts, he was more 
useful than in any former one. The following was 
one of the resolutions adopted by the socjety in 
Woonsocket in reference to his departure : — 

Whereas our pastor, Rev. J. Jennings, has felt it his 
duty to bring his labors to a close with this church, — 

Resolved^ That we sincerely regret the separation, and 
that he carries with him the confidence and best wishes 
of this society for his success in his new field of labor. 

Joseph Ruscell, Sec. 
To Rev. J. Jennings. 

In " The Woonsocket Patriot," about the time of 
my father's settlement there, the editor wrote, — 

We think the church and society fortunate in their 
choice of pastor. With an earnest Christian heart, a 
kind, sympathetic temperament, and a scholarly intel- 
ligence, he is such a pastor as the church needs. May 
his labors be productive of abundant good ! 



IX. 




11 HE church in Westfield gave a cordial wel- 
come to the new pastor, who came among 
- " them, not with the enthusiasm and bright 
"^^ hopes of youth, but with the sober and 
chastened earnestness of one who had 
labored long enough to know the work before him. 
Yet he never felt a more eager desire to be useful to 
his people. The rich experience of delight in his 
work, and peace in his own soul, which his journal 
from this time records, may remind one of the ap- 
proach of the sunset radiance, while the sun, 
though past his noonday brightness, is yet shining 
in his strength, — a warm and mellow radiance, 
more lovely than the brighter light of morning, — 
a soft and tender radiance, in which the sun shall 
decline in beauty, to set in peaceful splendor. 
From the journal in Westfield : — 



July 12, 1862. — I have felt it my duty to accept a 
very earnest call from this church. I deplore the neces- 



94 Memorial of- 

sity of a change, and leave the people in Woonsocket 
with regret. Have given this day mostly to study, medi- 
tation, and prayer. I desire the sustaining and directing 
grace of God in this time of need. Have more than 
usual desire for the salvation of souls, yet am oppressed 
with responsibility. There is much to be done for the 
cause in this place. 

July 13. — A beautiful Sabbath. Fair liberty in 
preaching, though my heart is not so soft and tender as I 
desire. The communioti solemn and refreshing. 

July 15. — Comfortable evidence of acceptance with 
my Saviour. Some anxiety- about a house to live in. 
May I be prepared for the house not made with 
hands ! 

July 16. — Study and visiting. Some desire to be 
free from sin, and useful in the cause. 

July 17. — Visited an aged brother, who is ripening 
for heaven ; also a devoted Christian sister, incurably 
sick, but comfortable. Have enjoyed some hope of 
heaven. 

July 18. — Visited considerably. Would I could 
become like Him who " went about doing good " ! 

July 19. — Unusual enjoyment in prayer, and in the 
word of God. 

July 20. — Preached of our mutual duties to my peo- 
ple. A very pleasant day. Felt encouraged. 

July 22. — Funeral of a "child. Oh the sadness of 
death ! 

July 24. — Have agreed to purchase a house. May it 
be the residence of the Holy Spirit ! Shall I be useful 
among this people ? Much depends on my own faithful- 
ness. - God give me grace equal to my day ! 



Rev. yohn yearnings. 95 

July 26. — A quiet morning in study. More than 
common desire for a life of faith and purity. Lord, pre- 
pare me for the Sabbath ! Make it a day of tenderness 
in preaching, and give success to thy Word, and bring 
souls out of darkness into marvellous light ! 

July 27. — Sabbath. Blessed day of privilege and 
hope, when nature, providence, and grace unite to speak 
of the Creator's praise and the Redeemer's love ! Have 
enjoyed the gospel in my own heart while I endeavored 
to preach it to others. I trust some impression has been 
made. If one soul has been converted, it more than 
repays my toil. 

Aug. 16. — Have been most intensely and constantly 
engaged during the last fortnight in moving. Will it be 
for the glory of God and the good of souls? Lord, 
thou knowest ! 

Aug. 17. — Sabbath. And a sabbath to my soul. 
Pleasant day, and freedom in preaching the blessed gos- 
pel. Thank God ! 

Aug. 18. — Busy and tired. Mostly occupied in 
regulating the house. How much the body and this 
world require ! When shall my mansion be above? 

Aug. 19. — Still busy. Hopeful. Pervading desire to 
be useful in this place. 

Aug. 21. — Unusual comfort in the evening meeting. 
The Lord hear the prayers offered ! 

Aug. 23. — How fast the weeks are measured off! 
How fast eternity comes on ! Oh ! am I ready ? 

Aug. 24. — Blessed Sabbath! Best day of all the 
seven. Good time. War-meeting in the evening, and 
prayer-meeting afterwards. God save the country ! 

Aug. 25. — Very weary. 



g6 Memorial of 

Aug. 26. — Pained at the state of the country. When 
will God rise, and end this strife t 

Aug. 27. — Not well. Oppressed witht he heat. Some 
hope in God. 

Aug. 31. — A glorious day. Liberty in preaching; 
but I am oppressed with the state of our country. O 
Lord, give us peace ! 

Sept. I. — Weary and sick. Visited a sick man. 

Sept. 2. — Some hope for my country, and for pardon 
through grace. 

Sept. 3. — Association at Middlefield. A good time. 
Preached freely, and with comfort. Tender feeling in 
all the brethren. The war-news very exciting. 

Sept. 4. — Returned from the Association very tired. 
Oh, this poor nature ! how easily it is worn out ! Lord, 
save a poor, trembling sinner ! I come to thee. 

Sept 7. — Avery oppressive Sabbath, Some comfort 
in the day's work. 

Sept. 14. — Sabbath. Blessed day ! Have preached 
with pleasure and freedom. Lord, revive thy work ! 
Save my country ! Save the souls of men ! 

Sept. 15. — Weary. Visited the sick. 

Sept. 21. — Sabbath. " Day of all the week the best ; 
emblem of eternal rest." Good day in preaching. Good 
meeting in the evening. 

Oct. 2. — Two stormy days. Feel sad and dispirited. 
My country bleeds. And I know not what is to be my 
success among this people. 

Oct. 3. — A thin meeting, but a good spirit. I have 
an unusual desire for usefulness among this people. 
Am willing to exert myself more than ever to do good. 
The Lord help me ! 



Rev, John Jemiings. 97 

Oct. 5. — A good day. More interest. Full house. 
Good time in the evening. 

Oct. 6. — Weary. Visited the sick. Hope for the 
Lord's blessing. 

Oct. 7. — Went to Springfield to the meeting of the 
American Board. Good missionary meeting. Lord, 
send thy Word, and let it fly ! 

Oct. 9. — Twenty-eight years since we were married. 
What a checkered life ! Lord, let thy light shine upon us ! 

Oct. 12. — A fair liberty in the gospel. Good con- 
gregation, and good attention to the Word. May it be 
blessed to the edification of souls ! 

Oct. 13. — Funeral of Mr. D. Sherman. An aged 
Christian soldier has finished his course, and kept the 
faith. Oh, may I be as well prepared to go when the 
summons comes ! 

Oct. 15. — Sewing-circle. A large and pleasant 
gathering of our people at our house. It seems good. 

Oct. 18. — Visited some. Want to be prepared for 
the Sabbath. Lord, the preparation is from thee ! 
Grant it, for the sake of souls ! 

Oct. 19. — Sabbath. Blessed day ! 

Oct. 20. — Weary. Visited among my people. 

Nov. 2. — Pleasant Sabbath services. 

Nov. 3. — Visited and rested. Some hope, and desire 
for holiness. 

Nov. 9. — Stormy day, but fair attendance. I pray for 
more gospel fervor and grace. 

Nov. 10. — How I long to be lifted above self and 
sin ! O my country ! McClellan is removed from the 
command of the Army of the Potomac. God only can 
save us ! 

9 



98 Memorial of 

Nov. 16. — Sabbath. A blessed day! 

Nov. 19. — Wet, gloomy day. Some light and peni- 
tence within-doors. 

Dec. 17. — Sabbath. Winter; but some spring in 
my own heart and in my desires. Some indications of 
good in the church. Oh for a good work of grace ! 

Dec. 14. — Preached with great freedom and comfort. 
Sick headache in the evening till twelve o'clock. 

Dec. 15. — Weak and weary. 

Dec. 28. — Impressed with the fact that it is the last 
Sabbath in the year. Solemn service. 

Dec. 29. — Weary. No strength to work. O Saviour, 
save me from evil ! Forgive my sins ! 

Jan. I, 1863. — And still I live ! This year has been 
most memorable for the terrible war of the Rebellion. 
Lord, give us peace in thine own way ! 

Jan 4. — First Sabbath of the year. I have preached 
every Sabbath during the past year. Lord, I thank thee ! 
Spare me, if thou canst, for my family's sake ! 

Jan. 5. — Weary. 

Jan. II. — This has been a Sabbath of great interest 
and solemnity. I have preached to my dear people at 
Fitchburg, and at the funeral of my old and dear friend 
Deacon Gage. He had a long and severe sickness. In 
him I have lost a friend in the truest sense. 

He was frequently sent for on similar occasions. 
And the attachment of his former churches is 
shown in the fact, that, in every case but one, he 
was invited to attend the funerals of his former 
deacons. Three times from Fitchburg, once from 
Grafton, and once from Worcester, there came 



Rev. yo/m yennings, ' 99 

such a request. And he was repeatedly invited 
to conduct the funeral services of his former 
parishioners. Short as some of his pastorates 
were, he was not forgotten by his people. Indeed, 
each successive settlement seemed only to enlarge 
the number of his flock, which, at length, might be 
counted almost by thousands. 

March 8. — Last Monday my long and tried friend, 
Dr. Henry Jackson of Newport, died instantly in the 
cars. How like a translation! Lord, forgive my sins, 
and bring me to thee ! 

March 22. — A very pleasant Sabbath. Some tender- 
ness in preaching, and it seemed not without effect. 

March 29. — Unusual freedom in preaching, and some 
of the brethren seem quickened by it. Will it not please 
the Lord to come and bless us ? 

Sept. 8. — Have been absent more than three weeks. 
Have been very sick with dysentery. Think my hope 
did not fail me. God be praised for recovering mercy ! 

Sept. 10. — Ordination-day. Some are gone who laid 
their hands upon my head. What have I done for Him 
who died for me ? 

Oct. 9. — Wedding-day. What changes ! God has 
graciously spared us to each other, though he has taken 
our jewels to his home. 

Oct. 23. — Anniversary of the death of our last angel 
boy, John Carlos. He slept so sweetly ! 

Dec. 23. — Last Sabbath of 1863. 

*' Cover my defenceless head 
With the shadow of Thy wing." 

uorc . 



lOO Memorial of 

Feb. 21, 1864.: — My wife's birthday. How fast the 
time rolls on ! The hour hastens when we must part 
for a season. 

Sabbath, June 5. — A most deeply interesting day. 
Baptized my precious daughter, Alice. God has seen 
best to permit her natural life to be clouded by the 
loss of her hearing ; but, blessed be his name, she 
has a good hope, through grace, of a better inherit- 
ance ! 

Sept. 10. — Thirty years to-day I was solemnly set 
apart to the work I have so poorly done. God has been 
good. I have had almost unbroken ability to labor, 
though most imperfectly, in the vineyard ; but, having 
done all, I am an unprofitable servant. For a number 
of weeks my wife has been sick, and I have been con- 
fined to her room much of the time. But, thank God, 
she is slowly recovering. 

Sept. 27. — Association at Agawam. Preached with 
unusual freedom. A good time all through. 

Oct. 17. — This day we have laid in his grave Bro. 
Addison Parker. He has gone in a ripe age to his rest. 
May I be ready ! 

Dec. 8. — Again I mark the flight of time. To-day I 
am fifty-six. How soon it will be said of me, as of my 
brethren, " He is dead " ! How unprofitable and sinful 
my life ! Lord, help me from this hour to live to more 
decided purpose ! 

Sabbath, Dec. 18. — A very pleasant day without, 
and a comfortable day in the sanctuary. Some interest 
in preaching the Word. May we be quickened in the 
life of God ! 

Sabbath, Dec. 25. — Christmas. A day not all prof- 



Rev, yohii yennings. loi 

itless, I hope. " So teach us to number our days, that we 
may apply our hearts unto wisdom." 

Sabbath, Jan. i, 1865. — A beautiful day in Nature, 
and a good day in Zion. Some comfort in preaching. 

Feb. 7. — The fourteenth birthday of dear Ahce, my 
precious, unfortunate child. Will God ever grant her to 
hear well again ? 

Sept. 10. — Have enjoyed but little in preaching to- 
day, for want of prayer and preparation. Shall it be 
thus again ? Thirty-one years to-day since I was ordained 
to the great work of my life. But oh, my poor life ! 
What a failure ! 

Oct. 9. — Wedding-day. A goodly time the Lord has 
allowed me to live in domestic peace, mingled with and 
chastened by trials incident to life in this frail abode. 
God spare to me my dear wife, and spare us both, if it 
may be, to our dear invalid child ! 

Dec. 8. — How fast the years hasten by ! And I am 
nearer home, if I am a child of God. How many more 
years are to be added to my life is known only to Him 
who numbers all the beatings of this poor heart. 

Dec. 9. — How can I stand up on the morrow, and 
declare the truth to the people ? Lord, help ! 

Dec. 31. — An uncommon solemnity on my mind. 
Preached wdth a deep sense of responsibility. This 
closes, as the Sabbath began, this year. 

Oh for grace to live for God and in God the year to 
come more than in any year of my short life ! • 

Jan. 3, 1866. — Pain in the head is the frequent portion 
of my frail life. But, if I am a child of God, my Father 
will, ere long, relieve these sufferings of the present. 
Jan. 7. — Day always to be remembered as the anni- 



I02 Memorial of 

versary of Emma's death. Oh the changes of twenty- 
three years ! Lord, give me rest in thee ! 

Jan. 12. — Anniversary of the death of my first son. 
Oh the sad days ! But God knows best. He took him 
to his rest in Jesus' arms. 

Jan. 17. — Preached in Springfield at the ordination of 
Bro. W. W. Merriam. He goes to labor among the 
freedmen. Lord, bless his labors ! 

Jan. 28. — Preached with unusual ease, and with a 
tender feeling, which was responded to in the audience, 
larger than usual. Lord, let it be a token for good ! 

March 4. — Sick in body, but a comfortable day 
spiritually. 

March 11. — Preached with difficulty. 

May 20. — Enjoyed more than usual in preaching. 

June 3. — Some desires for souls, but hardly know 
what is my own state. Lord, search me, and know my 
heart ! 

From these extracts, brief and fragmentary as 
they are, and evidently intended for no eye but his 
own, it is not difficult to trace the path, which he and 
his friends then knew not, by which the Lord was 
leading him to the fullest and happiest exercise of 
his ministry, and the most complete development of 
his own Christian character, while his bodily health 
was failing. Though the outward man perished, 
the inner man was renewed day by day ; and the 
Christian pastor was rapidly being purifiicd, and 
made meet for the inheritance of the saints in light. 

He was mercifully sustained, and enabled to ac- 



Rev, yohn Jennings. 103 

complish much labor, in great bodily weakness. 
His sermons in Westfield were more carefully writ- 
ten, his expositions of truth more clear and con- 
vincing, than at any former period of his ministry. 

At this time he had great enjoyment in an inti- 
mate Christian friendship with the noble and vener- 
able Dr. Davis, for thirty years pastor of the 
First Congregational Church in Westfield. With 
him he often took sweet counsel ; and in brotherly 
love they met, and talked of the interests of Zion, 
and mingled their prayers for their people. At the 
ministers' prayer-meeting on Monday morning, 
there were sometimes only these two present ; but 
they would remain, and claim the promise to two 
or three gathered together, feeling assured that the 
Promiser was with them. 

When Dr. Davis, having just completed his prepa- 
ration for the Sabbath, was removed in a moment 
to the worship of the upper temple, my father's first 
exclamation was, "That is the way to go, with 
the harness on !" His exulting joy in the blessed- 
ness of his friend made him almost forget to grieve 
over his own loss at first, though afterwards he felt 
it sorely. 

June 10, 1866, he writes, — 

Sad day. Preached in the sorrow of bereavement. 
Dr. Davis's death has thrown a shade of sadness over all. 
His closed sanctuary was the most eloquent appeal of the 
day. His death will bring responsibility upon me. 
Lord, help me to do fully my work ! 



I04 Memorial of 

Monday, June i.i. — This day will be remembered for 
the burial of Dr. Davis. The respect manifested was 
universal, the crowd immense. Sermon by Dr. Hop- 
kins ; excellent. If I were called, am I ready ? 

Sept. lo. — Thirty-two years in the ministry. How 
poorly I have used my sacred office is known to me and 
to God alone. Oh for grace to improve ! 

Dec. I. — This day I am fifty-eight. It is a long life, 
but how poor ! Lord, shall I live as in the past ? 

Dec. 9. — Very much depressed. I am far from what 
I ought to be. 

Jan. I, 1867. — My wife sick for several weeks. 

March 24. — ■ Sabbath. Have to-day preached once. 
Six Sabbaths, hav^ been sick. May this be a wholesome 
discipline, bringing me " Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer 
to thee ! " 

Sept: 10. — Thirty-three years since hands now in the 
dust were laid on my head in solemn ordination. Oh, how 
poorly have I lived, and preached the blessed gospel ! 
Lord, help me to be more faithful ! 

Dec. 8. — Birthday. Oh for grace to live better, and 
do more for God ! Preached twice. Good day. 

Jan. 5, 1868. — This is the week of prayer. Oh for 
the Spirit ! 

Dec. 8. — This is the completion of sixty years in this 
world. Threescore ! Much longer than I have expected 
to live. Lord, help me to arise from sin and self to 
thee and my great work ! 

Another new and beautiful church was reared 
before his eyes, in the erection and furnishing of 
which he took the deepest interest. The chapel 



Rev. John Jennings, 105 

was used as a church until the completion of the 
main edifice. On a beautiful morning in Septem- 
ber, 1867, the corner-stone was laid. In delivering 
the address, my father seemed almost inspired. 
His look and tone when he pronounced the closing 
words cannot be described. This address will be 
found among the selections at the close of this 
sketch. The church, which was a model of beauty 
and convenience, was dedicated Aug. 12, 1868. 

My father took great delight in this new sanctu- 
ary for about six months, when his increasing ill 
health compelled him to give up all pastoral labor, 
and resign his charge at Westfield. 

He alludes in the journal to the baptism of his 
youngest daughter in June, 1864. On each anni- 
versary of this day he baptized some of the youth of 
the church. On one of these occasions he wel- 
comed eight, all members of the Sabbath school. 
In his sermon preceding the ordinance he alluded 
very touchingly to his own baptism with a similar 
number. The last Sabbath on which he preached 
in Westfield he baptized four recent converts, using 
the new baptistery for the first time. His text on 
this occasion was Heb. xii. 22, 23 ; and his descrip- 
tion of the " heavenly Jerusalem " could not have 
been more appropriate had he known how soon he 
was himself to enter it. 

The last Sabbath he spent in Westfield he visited 
the baptismal waters for the last time, to bury with 
Christ and raise to newness of life a young lady, 



io6 Memorial, 

whose conversion seemed to be in direct answer to 
his earnest intercession for her in his own house. 
She was but one of many who had received the 
blessed gift of repentance and faith during one of 
his fervent, prevaihng prayers, and had risen from 
prayer with a new love and joy. His prayers, on 
such occasions, were like the wrestlings of Jacob 
with the angel ; and the answer w^as in many cases 
immediate. This special token of the Master's ap- 
proval was sweet and precious to the pastor whose 
work was so nearly done. 



«:'%r^,i-^r^^(^^v^ 




X. 



YOMPELLED to give up pastoral labor, my 
father chose for the site of his new dwelling 
% a lovely eminence in Auburndale, Mass., 
(f|^^ where he removed in June, 1869. 

During the first year of his residence 
there he gave himself to rest and recreation more 
than ever before, feeling it his duty to endeavor to 
improve his health by all possible means. He 
greatly enjoyed the lovely scenery and agreeable 
society of the village. He found great pleasure in 
building a house arranged for the comfort of his 
wife and daughter, and repeatedly spoke with satis- 
faction of the fact, that, in every respect, it pleased 
them entirely ; for he was always best pleased 
with what pleased his dear ones, — a true follower 
of Him who pleased not himself His journal indi- 
cates his religious enjoyment at this time. His 
faith grew constantly more clear and bright ; and 
his hope, so often clouded before, was now almost 



io8 Memorial of 

undimmed. He enjoyed this beautiful world, too, 
as never before ; and in his family, with his grand- 
children, — for whom he had many plans and hopes, 
— and among his numerous friends, he was, if pos- 
sible, more genial and cheerful than ever. After so 
long and laborious a ministry, it afforded him great 
delight to hear the gospel from other lips, and to 
attend the social prayer-meetings, where his earnest 
exhortations, and clear views of the great themes 
of the gospel, caused him to be loved and wel- 
comed. 

His bodily weakness increased ; a slight exertion 
overpowered him ; he felt a constant fatigue, so 
that he could walk but a short distance without 
distressing faintness : but his ■ soul renewed its 
strength, and could mount up with wings as eagles ; 
could run, and not be weary ; could walk, and not 
faint. 

From his journal: — 

Dec. 8, 1869. — Am now resting in my new house in 
Auburndale, and preaching a part of the time. To-day 
I am sixty-one. Is it possible ? God has been good. 

March 19, 1870. — This afternoon and evening in my 
new study. It is delightful. 

Sabbath, Aug. 7, 1870. — Have preached several Sab- 
baths at Weston. This afternoon I enjoyed the delight- 
ful privilege of the communion at Newton Centre, 
administered by Brother Bullen. The heat has been op- 
pressive ; but I feel some nearness to my God. 

Aug. 9. — Read an hour in Gibbon, and, for devotional 



Rev, yohn Je^mings, 109 

reading, in Chalmers's " Romans," — searching and excel- 
lent. Spent the evening on the river with my wife and 
Alice, by the invitation of onr kind neighbors Mr. and 
Mrs. K. It was a perfect moonlight evening. Sweet 
thoughts of Him who made the river and the beautiful 
moon. May I have true repentance for the past, and 
abounding hope for the future ! 

Aug. 16. — Reading " The Bibliotheca," and Chalmers 
on Rom. viii. Oh that the peace of the justified were 
fully mine ! Strong appearance of showers this evening. 
Lord, rain on the parched earth and into this sterile 
heart ! 

Aug. II. — Studied to some profi.t, I trust. Nothing 
remarkable to-dav. A soft and tender recognition of 
God. 

In October, 1870, he had a very severe and 
dangerous illness in Danbury, where he had gone 
to visit his sister. Through the blessing of God, 
the gentle care and nursing of his nearest and 
dearest relatives restored him to considerable 
health. He seemed, for a time, almost to renew 
his youth, and keenly enjoyed revisiting, with his 
beloved wife, the scenes and friends of their early 
life. Through the warm, bright autumn days of 
his convalescence he looked upon the scenery — so 
grand and glorious, so dear and familiar — with 
almost boyish delight, enjoying every thing to the 
full, and giving pleasure to the many friends whose 
faces he then beheld for the last time on earth : so 
mercifully did the loving Father — who knew, as 



iTO Memorial of 

he did not, that it was his farewell visit — order all 
things for the comfort of his beloved child, and 
provide a,rich store of delightful memories for those 
who remain. 

Returning home, he retained, for a few weeks,, 
the vigor and cheerfulness which gave so much 
hope. 

But again his strength failed, and frequent at- 
tacks of illness prostrated him. Still his spirit was 
bright and resolute. When, in March, 1871, he 
eceived a letter from the church in Grafton, re- 
questing him to supply their pulpit for three 
months, he wrote from his sick-bed, that, God 
willing, he would do so. In great physical weak- 
ness, but strong in the Lord and in the power of 
his might, he went forth once more to proclaim the 
glad tidings. On the last wedding anniversary, he 
wrote, — 

This is the Sabbath. Thirty-six years to-day we 
entered that checkered scene of love and labor, of joy 
and sorrow, which is the portion of the ministry. God 
has given us a mingled cup. May we drink it submis- 
sively to the end ! 

On the last birthday : — 

Dec. 8. — This day I am sixty-two. It seems impos- 
sible that my life has been so long. What a dream ! 
How full of change and care and sin and hope ! Since 
my last writing, I have been very sick in Danbury, but 



Rev. yohn yennings. 1 1 1 

am spared through mercy. Have been better for the 
last few weeks. Have preached three Sabbaths at West 
Newton, where the Word seemed to be blessed. The 
people there are very kind. How much the good 
Shepherd has for me to do I know not. Lord, here am 
I : send me if thou wilt! 

On his last New Year : — 

Jan. I, 1871.- — Another figure is now to mark the time 
of our life. The past year, with its joys and sorrows 
and all its events, is with the years beyond the flood. I 
have done comparatively little for the cause for which I 
live. May the present be a more fruitful and blessed 
year than the past ! 

His physician had recommended, almost com- 
manded, perfect rest ; but he longed to visit once 
more his dear people in Grafton. A letter had also 
come from his Worcester friends, requesting him to 
occupy their pulpit once more. His answer to that 
request will show how joyfully he acceded to it: — 

AuBURNDALE, March 5, 187 1. 

Dear Brother, — I can be with you the third Sab- 
bath (i8th inst.), Providence favoring. It will give me 
great pleasure to stand once more on the old and favor- 
ite and favored post of Zion. 

Doubtless I shall see the old and the new, more new 
than old, among the worshippers. 

May the Lord grant a pastor after his own heart ! 

Yours trulv, 

J. Jennings. 
To Charles Ballard, Esq. 



1 1 2 Memorial of 

The welcome he received from both these church- 
es cheered him as nothing else could. Here was 
another token of the love of Him in whose sight 
the death of his saints is precious, and who was 
now leading his faithful servant through the land of 
Beulah, down to the river beyond which arose the 
gates of the blessed city. 

The thought that those friends from whom he 
had so long been separated remembered him so 
well, and desired again to hear his voice, seemed to 
nerve him with a new energy, though his strength 
was daily failing. One Sabbath morning in Grafton, 
when nearly through his sermon, he fainted in the 
pulpit ; yet his resolution did not fail, and he went 
through the afternoon service, and preached two 
Sabbaths more. In conversation with his wife about 
this time, he said, " I would as soon go from Graf- 
ton or Worcester pulpit as from any spot on earth." 
His desire was granted ; and he finished his earth- 
ly labors by preaching the last Sabbath but one at 
Worcester, and the last (March 26) in Grafton. 
His text in the afternoon, in Worcester, was, " Ex- 
cept a corn of wheat fall into the ground, and die, 
it abideth alone ; " and the congregation in Grafton 
will not soon forget how he set forth "■ Christ the 
Way " in his last sermon. 

On a bright and beautiful morning (April 10) . 
he left home for a journey, hoping to recruit his 
strength by a change of air and scene ; but just 
before he reached Framingham, the station ten 



Rev. yohn ycjtninos. i i 3 

miles distant, be fainted quite away. After recover- 
ing, and resting a short time, he turned his face once 
more homeward, and wearily ascended the hill by 
the path his feet were never again to tread. For 
two or three days he moved about feebly, gladdening 
the family circle by his presence, speaking cheer- 
fully, thoughtful as ev'er of every one's comfort, 
even sinf^inof about the house : then he entered 
that chamber which was so shortly to become none 
other than the house of God and the gate of heaven. 

For two or three weeks his illness was not alarm- 
ing, and we hoped that rest and care would restore 
him ; but favorable symptoms failed to appear, and 
he grew weaker day by day, while his soul was 
pluming itself for its heavenward flight. Great as 
was his love for life, and thankful as was his enjoy- 
ment of every thing up to the last day of his life, 
still, like a child laying aside one toy after another 
for something higher and better, he was giving up 
earthly things, and rapidly growing into the meas- 
ure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. 

Yet he looked back lovingly, as we do upon our 
childhood, saying, one day, " How precious is the 
remembrance of many things I used to enjoy ! But 
I don't care for them now." 

His affections were kindly and imperceptibly 
weaned from earth, so that it cost him no pain even 
to leave those things which had once afforded him 
the greatest delight. 

He was almost constantly in prayer; and the 



114 Me^norial of 

words, "Jssus, my Master," fell often from his lips 
in the stillness of the night, or when no one was 
by him except his wife, who nursed him night and 
day. 

No doubt of his acceptance with God seemed to 
trouble him. " Unworthy as I am, Jesus will take 
me," were his words. Full of courage and hope to 
the last, not knowing but it might be the Master's 
will to spare him, he yet committed all to the Lord. 
" I should like to live here a few years longer, if it 
were the Lord's will," said he ; '' but I can't direct. 
Father, thy will be done." 

At times his comfort grew almost to rapture, and 
his clear spiritual vision beheld the things which 
God hath prepared for them that love him. Two 
Sabbaths before his death, he said, " They have a 
beautiful Sabbath for meetings ; but, oh, how differ- 
ent the spirit which will pervade the eternal Sab- 
bath ! " Then raising his hands, " Oh ! I wonder 
if heaven in reality will be any thing like the ideas I 
now have of it." He then spoke in glowing lan- 
guage of the joys and glories in prospect, men- 
tioning the names of the dear friends he believed 
he should meet, " and, more than all, the glorious 
company of apostles and prophets, and Jesus 
Christ himself, my blessed Redeemer. No pain, 
no sin, no anxious care." 

His thoughts and desires were constantly up- 
ward, and his language grew heavenly. In the early 
part of his illness, when we were conversing hope- 



Rev, yohn yennings. 1 1 5 

fully of his recovery, he said, " Well, the land of 
Canaan is just on high," speaking and looking as if 
he could almost behold it. Once he said, " I be- 
lieve my work is done. It has been done but poor- 
ly. My only hope is in the ' Rock of ages, cleft for 
me. 

When Rev. Mr. Richards, who was to take his 
place at Grafton, called on Saturday to take any 
message, he said, " Here am I, and the Lord is 
MY Shepherd." It is impossible to describe his 
countenance and voice and manner as he spoke 
these words. 

His unselfish thousfhtfulness continued to the 
last. He would insist upon our resting, and many 
times a day inquire after our health, even after his 
utterance became extremely painful from his weak- 
ness and suffering. The unwearied kindness of 
neighbors and friends through all his sickness he 
received with the most touching gratitude. When 
Rev. ]Mr. Richards returned from Grafton, and told 
him of the Sabbath evening meeting, where sym- 
pathy for him, and prayers for his recovery, occupied 
the thoughts and filled the hearts of that beloved 
people, he wept freely, and expressed his gratitude 
most warmly. And when he learned, that in the 
Friday-evening prayer-meeting at Auburndale, 
which he had enjoyed so much, there were many 
kind words and earnest prayers for him, again he 
wept; but, soon brightening, he said, "W^ell, I 
believe I shall meet them in heaven." 



1 1 6 Memorial of 

A few days before his death, after a fahiting- 
turn, he called his family about him, and we beheld 
his face as it had been the face of an angel, while he 
said, " My dear wife and children, I am going, and 
you must care for each other as well as you can." 
He then spoke of the care of the dear child Alice, 
who had been the object of so much solicitude, and 
gave some other careful directions. His friend, 
Rev. Mr. Richards, coming in soon after, he said, 
"Now I want you to bow down, and let Brother 
Richards commend you to God, and to the word of 
his grace." 

After this, he was more comfortable ; and we 
yet hoped for his recovery. Our eyes were holden, 
and we -could not see the end drawing near, till, 
like the Lord whose humble servant he rejoiced to 
be, he vanished out of our sight. Then our eyes 
were opened. 

On Tuesday afternoon, May 23, he looked up 
brightly, and said, " Are you all here } " We an- 
swered " Yes ; " and he then gave directions regard- 
ing his funeral service and burial as minutely as 
he would have done in perfect health. "Let every 
thing be done decently and in order," said he, "and 
with as little trouble as possible." Again he spoke 
of the dear child who had been the subject of so 
much sorrow, and who now, for the last time, felt 
the pressure of his hand, although she could not 
hear his voice. He had many times, when in 
health, expressed the hope that he might live as 



Rev, yohfi ye7inings, 1 1 7 

long as she ; but now he resigned her to the care 
of Him who remembereth his children, especially 
those whom he has afflicted. He also sent mes- 
sages to all his grandchildren. Then he gave us 
^ his parting benediction, " The Lord bless you, and 
keep you from sin ! The Lord bless my dear 
children and grandchildren, for Christ's sake ! " 

We hardly thought he would say any thing more, 
he was so weak, and seemed much of the time 
unable to notice any thing. The next day, Wednes- 
day, a friend sent him some lovely flowers. When 
I offered them to him, he took them in his hand a 
moment, saying, " They are beautiful." A few 
days before, he had sent some choice flowers to a 
neighbor who had been the kindest of friends to 
him through his sickness, with this message : " Tell 
her they are of the land to which I am going." 

His last words were spoken on Thursday morn- 
ing. In offering him some nourishment, I said, 
" Do take it, dear father ; it may do you good : and 
the Lord is able to make you well even now." — 
" Yes, oh, yes ! " answered he ; and the inflection 
was such as to express his thought, " Yes, he can ; 
but he does not mean to here." The sound of 
that voice, unlike any other in its sweet, affec- 
tionate, pathetic melody, fell then upon our ears for 
the last time, and for the last time he received the 
meat which perisheth, before he entered the blessed 
country where " the Lamb which is in the midst of 
the throne shall feed him, and shall lead him unto 
living fountains of waters." 



1 1 8 Memorial of 

Several times during the morning he recognized 
us, but did not speak. About two in the afternoon, 
we were together beside him, and I said, "You 
know me, father, your daughter Bella, and Alice, 
and mother ? " He closed his eyes in assent, looked 
at each of us with unutterable tenderness, raised 
his eyes to heaven, then closed them, and sank 
into a sweet slumber, succeeded in about twelve 
hours by the deeper, sweeter sleep which " He 
giveth his beloved," to awake in glory. 

About two o'clock, Friday morning. May 26, he 
passed away; and we found him, with his head 
resting on his hand, as he sank to sleep after that 
farewell look. Thus he entered into his glorious 
rest, leaving us only the sacred care of the last sad 
rites, and the precious memories of his beautiful 
life and death. 

On Sabbath afternoon. May 28, a most comfort- 
ing service was held at the house. The choir, 
through whose pleasant songs he had so often 
praised God in the sanctuary the two years past, 
chanted from the upper hall the words, " Thine 
earthly Sabbaths, Lord, we love ; " and, as the sweet 
tones floated downward upon the hushed assembly, 
it was like music from heaven. 

I can^ive but a meagre sketch of the services 
that followed, so grateful to our stricken hearts. 
Rev. Mr. Cutler, pastor of the Auburndale Church, 
first reviewed his brief acquaintance with m3Tather. 
Said he, " My first thought on being introduced to 



Rev. Jo fill yennings, 1 1 9 

him was, What a privilege it must be to have such 
a father! With what dehght httle children must 
grow up under the care of one so tender and 
gentle ! " He then spoke appreciatingly of my 
father's activity and interest in his church during 
his residence in Auburndale, saying that it was 
rare for one to form so many friends in so few 
months. 

Rev. Dr. Stearns followed. He began by refer- 
ring to the time, nearly a quarter of a century 
before, when, standing in the pulpit beside him, my 
father had given him the right hand of fellowship, 
welcoming him to the ministry. "And," said he, 
" I felt, then and ever afterward, that his heart was 
it it. In all my subsequent acquaintance and fel- 
lowship with him, I had increasing reason to believe, 
that, where he gave his hand, he gave his heart. I 
remember him softened by bereavement in Wor- 
cester, when he welcomed me cordially to his 
pleasant home ; and I felt that he still kept sacredly 
the pledge he had made at my ordination. After- 
ward, when for some four years he belonged to the 
church of which I was pastor, his sympathy and 
co-operation showed his remembrance of the same 
pledge." He then referred to the unusual length 
of my father's ministry, and ended with words of 
kindness and comfort, which gave a sweet relief to 
our mourning hearts. 

We hardly expected to hear Dr. Ripley's voice, 
^his strength being somewhat impaired by forty 



I20 Memorial of 

years of labor since my father began a course of 
study under his direction, though time had not di- 
minished the regard existing between professor and 
student. His words gave us, therefore, the greater 
comfort. His first thought was somewhat hke 
this : God has called himself our Father, and bid- 
den us address him thus ; and all our earthly ex- 
perience is intended to make us more truly his 
children ; and we ought to submit willingly, if, 
through human weakness, we cannot submit gladly, 
to his methods of working out the perfection of 
our childhood toward him. After speaking of af- 
fliction as one of these methods, he alluded to his 
recollection of my father when he began his studies. 
" I remember," said he, " what a lovely young man 
he was ; how prompt and diligent, how punctual 
in every exercise, how winning in his ma'nner, and 
consistent in his life." In closing, he spoke of my 
father's later life, and of his uncommon usefulness 
as a minister. 

Dr. Warren, my father's warm and constant friend 
from his youth, then offered a most comforting and 
strengthening prayer. 

The choir sang, " Asleep in Jesus ; " and the 
friends who had assembled looked for the last time 
on the face they had, most of them, so lately learned 
to love. 

On the same Sabbath, memorial services were 
held in Grafton and Woonsocket, where the pulpit 
was draped with mourning, and the pastor preached 



Rev, yohii yen7iings. 121 

from the words, " Received up into glory." When 
his death was announced in his Westfield pulpit, 
the bowed heads and sincere grief of the congrega- 
tion told how he was loved and honored there. 

In fulfilment of his wish that he might be buried 
in Worcester, on Monday morning we took the 
same route he had travelled in weakness and pain 
just seven weeks before ; and we rejoiced that 

" Ours was the pain, the toil, the strife, 
The doubt, and fear, and grief; 
His the immortal, glorious life, 
The endless, sweet relief." 

On reaching Worcester, our hearts were touched 
by new evidences of the affection still cherished for 
my father. At the house of the venerable Deacon 
Goddard, not only the immediate family, but many 
other friends, were most kindly entertained. 

Every thing that sympathizing hearts could de- 
sire, or willing hands perform, was done for our 
comfort ; and the memory of the kindness shown us 
that day, for his sake, will be a life-long treasure. 

The dear, familiar church had a strange peace 
within its sacred walls. In front of the pulpit, built 
for him, and now draped with the emblems of sor- 
row, lay the loved remains. The hands, never 
again to be raised in benediction, were peacefully 
crossed upon his breast ; the feet, once so beauti- 
ful upon the mountains, as he brought good tid- 
ings, -as he said unto Zion, " Thy God reigneth," 



122 Memorial of 

were still, never again to hasten at the Master's 
call ; and his dear countenance, once so bright with 
the earnestness of his love for souls, and for Him 
who died to save them, was now sealed with the 
calm majesty of death. 

The services were commenced by the singing of 
the sentence, " Blessed are the dead who die in the 
Lord." 

Prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Pervear of Wor- 
cester ; after which the hymn, " Servant of God, 
well done," was sung. Then Rev. Dr. Stearns gave 
a comprehensive view of my father's pastoral life 
and work, dwelling especially on his ability to " plan 
broadly for the Master," and his " urging his people 
constantly to a higher standard of piety and Chris- 
tian activity than they felt inclined to reach." He 
also alluded to the fact that my father was so often 
a pioneer of the church of his love in new places ; 
and that his settlement over a church was the sig- 
nal of advance for the Baptist cause in that place. 

Rev. Mr. Richards followed. The substance of 
his remarks will be found in an article which ap- 
peared in " The Watchman and Reflector," and is 
reprinted in part among the selections at the end 
of this sketch. His closing remark was, " He 
doubtless had his faults ; but I never knew what 
they were." Prayer was then offered by Rev. Mr. 
Weston of Worcester. 

The noble hymn, *' My Father's house on high," 
was then sung. It had, for many years, been his 



Rev, John yemimgs, 12 



J 



favorite, which he loved to sing, and would often 
call for in the social prayer-meetings. 

Then the great assembly of sincere mourners 
passed slowly before the coffin, and looked once 
more on the face of the beloved pastor. 

Many were present from the churches of Graf- 
ton, Fitchburg, Woonsocket, and Westfield, to tes- 
tify their respect and love. One feeling filled all 
hearts. Strong men trembled with emotion, and 
wept freely ; and many lingered, unwilling to leave 
the face and form of the dear pastor ; and many 
hearts of absent friends throbbed in sympathy that 
day. 

In sadness, yet in joy and triumph, we followed 
him to his chosen resting-place, looked one mo- 
ment more upon his face, placed upon his breast 
the choice flowers his friends in Auburndale had 
given in expression of their love, and left him to his 
quiet repose in the sweet earth, in the keeping of 
Him to whom the ashes of his faithful servant are 
most precious, — till, as the lightning that shineth 
from the east even unto the west, the coming of the 
Son of man, his loved Redeemer, shall awaken him 
in His likeness, to see him as he is. 



XL 




Y father's life and character were, in many 
respects, not unworthy of imitation. 

His love for his work, and for the souls of 
t- men, has been alluded to as the groundwork 
of his success. His preaching was clear 
and simple, with one motive, — so to present the 
truth as to impress the heart. He strove to pre- 
sent a single thought, and keep it before the mind 
till it made a deep impression. Often, in his ear- 
nestness, would he leave his manuscript, and, appeal- 
ing directly to the hearts of his hearers, become 
eloquent in his pleading for the cause so dear to 
him. The hymns were always chosen to aid the 
impression of the sermon ; and the careful selections 
of Scripture lost nothing by his manner of reading 
them. He believed it a preacher's duty to attend 
conscientiously to these accessories, thereby to 
increase the effect of the truth. His manner in the 
pulpit was nearly perfect : every gesture, action, 
and look, was dignified and reverent. 'The moment 



Rev, yohn yennhigs, 1 2 5 

he rose to speak, all eyes would turn toward him. 
. His very countenance bore the imprint of his love 
for souls. 

Another trait which distinguished him was the 
ready tact with which he adapted himself to the 
different circumstances of his people. In the vari- 
ous and often trying positions of a pastor, he was 
self-possessed, rarely disturbed, never blunder- 
ing or forgetful. His remarks on special occasions 
were appropriate, and never offensive ; and his quick 
spmpathies led him to discern readily, and respond 
warmly to, the feelings of those whom he addressed. 

When one of his parishioners confided to him the 
'difficulty he had in collecting his bills, my father 
prepared and preached a sermon from the text, 
." Owe no man any thing." After a season of 
drought, his text was, ** Hath the rain a father.^" 
On recovering from a severe illness in Westfield, 
he preached from " Who comforteth us in all our 
tribulation," &c. And he began a sermon in Au- 
burndale, which, though he was unable to finish it, 
remains a precious legacy to his family, from the 
text, " Casting all your care upon Him ; for he careth 
for you." 

By his simple, almost childlike piety, he daily 
preached a sermon to all who knew him, and espe- 
cially to those who knew him best. Everywhere 
he was cheerful, genial, and unselfish, making 
friends of all with whom he had any acquaintance 
or business dealings. Prompt and faithful to fulfil 



126 Me77torial of 

all obligations, he showed himself the upright, con- 
scientious, trustworthy citizen, guiding his affairs 
with discretion, like the " good man " described by 
the royal preacher. 

His unselfish heart, his cheerful, kind, and dig- 
nified demeanor, his true Christian courtesy, won 
him many friends outside the home circle. All 
these qualities were still more manifest to us, who 
saw him day by day, and hour by hour. No weari- 
ness nor pain could make him thoughtless of the 
comfort of any member of the family. Angry 
words almost never escaped his lips, and his uni- 
form cheerfulness made his presence a blessing to 
the house. Still, he was often righteously indig- 
nant, and always fearless in condemning w^hat he 
disapproved. His people were controlled almost 
wholly by love ; but there are many who can re- 
member occasions when he rose to the full dignity 
of his office, and boldly and personally rebuked those 
who had broken the laws of Christian love, or been 
remiss in Christian duty. And sometimes there 
were covert rebukes which lost nothing by indi- 
rectness. At one time there had been certain 
slanderous reports concerning some members of 
his church, and great imprudence of speech in other 
members. On the Sabbath morning the pastor 
read the first chapter of the Epistle of James in his 
ordinary manner until he reached the twenty-sixth 
verse. It is impossible to describe the expression 
he gave to this passage : " If any man among you 



Rev. John Jennmgs. i 2 7 

seem to be religious, and bridlctJi not Ids tongne " 
(here his voice deepened, and every word had a 
volume of meaning in it), " but deceiveth his own 
heart, this man's religion is vain." 

His broad mind and warm heart made him inca- 
pable of narrowness and bigotry. If such traits 
appeared in his people, he labored to educate them 
to greater Christian liberality, and, at the same time, 
to a higher appreciation of their own privileges. 

When one of the Congregationalist pastors in 
Fitchburg, his dear friend, remarked playfully to 
him that his mode of administering baptism 
involved more trouble than theirs, " Yes," was the 
quick rejoinder ; " and you lose the blessedness of 
the greater self-denial." 

Soon after one of his settlements, he was re- 
quested to attend the funeral of a military officer, 
in connection with a Unitarian minister, and in a 
church of that denomination. Though strongly 
advised by many of his people to refuse, he calmly 
went forward to do what he believed his duty ; and 
the searching appeal he made to those rough and 
careless soldiers drawn up in the aisle, and to the 
crowded assembly, thrilled all hearts. One sen- 
tence I recall. Speaking of the purposes of military 
organization, he said, " Your brave colonel has met, 
and been conquered by, an enemy stronger than 
he. That enemy every one of you must meet." 

From this time, the number of his friends was 
greater than that of his own society. When 



128 Memorial of 

accused at one time by one of his members of 
" breaking down all the barriers between Baptists 
and other sects," he said, " That is just what I de- 
sign to do, that my people may not be Baptists the 
less, but Christians the more." 

His piety was in his life more than in his words. 
He rarely spoke of his personal experience ; yet all 
could take knowledge of him that he had learned 
of Jesus, whose love controlled his actions. In 
times of trouble he was almost cofistantly in prayer ; 
and at all times his visits to the throne of grace 
were frequent and blessed. His citizenship was in 
heaven ; and this appeared more in the involuntary 
and unstudied expression of his feelings in family 
worship and social prayer than in more public ser- 
vices. 

For the minor virtues of industry, punctuality, 
and order, he was remarkable. Conscientiously 
regular in his habits, he accomplished more in a 
day than most persons do. The remark of a lady, 
a friend of the family, who had often visited us, 
" Mr. Jennings is the most industrious man I ever 
knew," will be echoed by all who knew him most 
intimately. The early morning, sometimes four 
o'clock, would find him busy in his garden ; and 
every moment of the day would be filled, except 
when he entered heartily into the duty of rest and 
recreation. On leaving home, he would fix an 
hour to return ; and almost never failed to enter 
the house punctually at the time he had appointed. 



Rev, yohn yennings. 129 

I have selected from his journal only passages 
referring to his inner life. Many others could show 
how fully his time was employed. 

He took great delight in his fine library, and 
regularly devoted some hours every day to reading. 

I here insert a record of two or three days at 
different portions of his life, which are only ex- 
amples of numberless similar ones. 

Dec. 8, 1848. — Half-past five began to read, and have 
devotions in my study. Wrote till ten. Went to N. E. 
village to see a sick lady; returned at five. Lecture this 
evening. 

Jan. I, 185 1. — Rose at seven. Breakfast and exercise 
till nine. Studied sermon till twelve. Exercise and 
dinner till half-past one. Read till three. Errands till 
five. Tea and exercise till six. Read till half-past. . 
Went into the city. Read till past ten. 

Jan. 2. — Rose at a quarter of six. Devotions and 
leading till seven. Breakfast and exercise till eight. 
Reading till nine. Funeral and errands till twelve. 
Dinner and rest till three. Reading till five. Tea and 

reading till seven. Mr. and Mrs. D visited us till 

ten. Devotions. Retire at half-past ten. 

Dec. 27, 1859. — Arose at seven. Exercise and 
breakfast and devotions till nine. Read till ten. Ser- 
mon till twelve. Dinner and " Atlantic Monthly " till 
two. Callers till three. Called on seven families till six. 
Supper, lecture, and devotions till half-past eleven. 

Jan. 5, i860. — Rose at half-past seven. Breakfast 
and devotion, with duties till nine. Wrote till one. 



130 Memorial of 

Read till three. Made pastoral calls till five. .Tea and 
reading till eight. Good meeting. Retire at half-past 
eleven. 

Jan. 19. — Devotion and cares till ten. Sermon till 
twelve. Dinner and reading till half-past two. Calls 
till five. Supper and reading till half-past seven. Meet- 
ing, &c., till ten. 

His keen enjoyment of life has been spoken of. A 
Christian minister once said, " He who is a Chris- 
tian enjoys every thing ; and the better the Christian, 
the more he enjoys everything." This remark was 
eminently true of my father. Comforts which many 
would regard as matters of course he enjoyed 
heartily ; and so great was his readiness to be made 
happy, that he would derive pleasure from ordinary 
events, and discover beauties even in unlovely ob- 
jects and characters. 

When his sufferings were greatest, he was cheer- 
fully and gratefully counting up his mercies. After 
giving up many comforts, he clung thankfully to 
those that were left. This was true even to the last 
day of -his life. 

The last entry in the journal was Jan. 24, 
1871 : — 

A busy day in Boston. A pleasant meeting of min- 
isters. A quiet evening at home. 

This is almost a description of his life, — full of 
activity during its greater portion ; cheered to- 



Rev. yohri yearnings, 131 

ward its close, more than before, by the society of 
his loved brethren in the ministry ; and ending 
peacefully in that home which was, in his affec- 
tions, second only to the " Father's house on high." 



Thus pass they from our homes away 

To worlds above the skies, 
Where glows the fair, celestial day, 

And pleasure never dies. 
We miss them where of late they trod 

Along earth's sunny bowers, 
Yet joy to know they dwell with God 

In sunnier clime than ours. 
Ours is the pain, the toil, the strife, 

The doubt, and fear, and grief: 
Theirs the immortal, glorious life, 

The endless, sweet relief. 
Life speeds apace : we'll struggle still, 

While sin and toil remain. 
Then soar to Zion's holy hill. 

And hail the loved again. 




S. F. S. 




XII. 



EXTRACTS FROM CORRESPONDENCE. 



Fro)n ■" The Watchman atid Reflector^' June 7, 187 1 : 



Shi 



I 



common with many others, especiall}' the 
churches he so well served, we are deeply 
G^Jj pained to hear of the death of that good man 
^^3 and excellent minister of Christ's gospel. Rev. 
^ John Jennings of Auburn dale, Mass. Partic- 
ulars we have not received. Mr. Jennings's health, 
though delicate of late, did not prepare any of us for 
news so unexpected and sad. 



From the same, June 21 : — 

Brother Jennings very fairly answered to Paul's descrip- 
tion of a " good minister of Jesus Christ." His preaching, 
sound in its doctrinal features, and evangelical, was highly 
practical, adapted to arrest the attention, to arouse the 
conscience, to enlighten the understanding, to convince 



Rev. yohit yennings, 133 



the judgment, and to control the will ; strikingly impres- 
sive, and inducing in the minds of hearers a persuasion 
of his sincerity, and of his feeling the importance of the 
theme on which he was treating. His statements of 
gospel truth were clear and forcible, his illustrations hap- 
pily conceived, his invitations touching, his exhortations 
persuasive, his appeals pungent, and his warnings solemn, 
uniformly bearing the impression of his having been with 
Jesus. There was such simplicity of utterance, such 
plainness of dealing, such kindness of language, and such 
unction of style, as made what he said pleasing and sat- 
isfying to the pious mind, and convincing and moving to 
the conscience and judgment of the masses in impeni- 
tence. His views of divine truth were sober and well- 
defined. The sinner self-ruined and helpless, yet rescued 
by sovereign grace, was a theme which filled his mind, 
and pervaded his ministry. He had felt himself the 
power of Christ's death and mediations ; and hence he 
delighted to exhibit them as God's appointed means of 
saving others, and to enforce them in all their practical 
bearings upon the conscience, the character, and the life. 
Our honored brother was possessed of those mental and 
moral aptitudes and attainments which contributed to his 
usefulness. His judgments were not hasty, nor innovat- 
ing, nor reckless. If he adopted any new views, he was 
infiuenced by conviction and principle rather than selfish- 
ness and passion. He studied human nature, recognized 
its teachings, and treasured up what it inculcated as 
valuable. Such mental habits qualified him to be a 
judicious counsellor in matters pertaining to social and 
religious life, and to our denominational interests and 
organizations. 



134 Memorial of 

Our lamented brother, in his more private relatio72s, 
gave proof of possessing quahties harmoniously blended, 
which fitted him to be a good pastor. Unaffected and 
unassuming, his mien was mainly cheerful, his conversa- 
tion chaste and free and animating, and his friendship 
active and enduring. He was courteous and genial and 
humane, and deeply tender of the feelings of others ; 
sympathizing in heart, weeping with those in sorrow, and 
rejoicing with those in gladness. 

In the domestic circle he was as the sun in the fir- 
mament, — mild and affectionate, shedding a hallowed 
influence on all about him. He was a man of piety, as 
every one would be impressed who heard him pray. He 
knew the way to the throne of grace, and was often there. 
His diary gives ample proof of this. It was the lot of 
the writer to cast an eye on several pages ; and the only 
impression made was, Bro. Jennings was a man of God. 

After declining health had compelled him to relinquish 
the pastoral office, his passion for preaching was so 
strong, that he probably indulged himself beyond the 
bounds of prudence. Said he to the writer one day, " I 
must preach when my strength will allow. I can't con- 
sent to give up the delightful work." 

During his last sickness he was never known to 
breathe out one, murmuring thought, or allow one repin- 
ing word. So perfect an example of Christian patience 
it has rarely been the privilege of any one to witness. 
His faith was steadfastly fixed on Christ, on his divinity 
and offices and work, and on the final conquests of his 
pfrace. With these sublime truths he had lived on the 
most familiar terms ; and in them gloried, as affording 
peculiar supports and comforts to his soul. It has been 



Rev. yohn yennings, 135 

the writer's privilege to visit him repeatedly, and to be 
greatly refreshed in witnessing his placid, cheerful coun- 
tenance, and his Christian spirit. On one occasion he 
said, "Christ's all-sufficient mediation is to me an ex- 
ceedingly precious and absorbing theme of meditation 
and delight. Here is the ground of my hope. My 
safety is in his blood and promises. And," continued 
he, " I have recently preached to the church of my love 
at Worcester,, and renewed my religious friendships, and 
enjoyed much ; and^ though feeble, have preached to the 
church in Grafton too. My last sermon was on ' Christ 
the Way ^nd the End of the Wa}^' And, if it be my 
last sermon, I am satisfied. Oh, how thrilling the theme! 
It meets all my desires. It is enough." In a sinking 
turn, he said, " Light affliction ! May it work for me the 
sanctifying and purifying of my soul ! " The exceeding 
and eternal weight of glory was the absorbing subject 
of his devout meditations. The gospel he had preached 
to others, and the Saviour he had loved and served, were 
his support'and comfort. His resignation to the divine 
will was unfeigned and complete. It was his high privi- 
lege to enjoy to the fullest imaginable extent what he 
had often desired, — a peaceful end, an "abundant 
entrance," &c. 

He passed from this world of shadows to one of per- 
petual light without a struggle. Christ glorified is now 
the object of his gaze, the theme of his meditation, the 
burden of his song. Few men have lived more respected 
and beloved, as a Christian man and a Christian minis- 
ter, by all who knew his virtues and piety. He leaves a 
clean record. His life has been a success. He has 
gone to his grave without a stain upon his character. 



136 Memorial of 

His afflicted wife and children are bereft of a devoted 
and loving companion, and a tender and indulgent 
father; the people of his former charges, of a sympathiz- 
ing friend ; the ministry, of an intelligent and efficient 
advocate ; and the Church of one of her brightest orna- 
ments. Well done, good and faithful servant ! 

From " The Woonsocket Patriot," June 2, 
1871: — 

Many of our readers will learn with sincere sorrow 
the death of Rev. John Jennings, formerly pastor of the 
Baptist church in Woonsocket. As a minister, Mr. Jen- 
nings was both popular and successful. Each flock in- 
creased under his charge. He was a good speaker, 
very persuasive, and sought to win souls by love and 
sympathy. 

As a man, Mr. Jennings was modest and unobtrusive, 
yet exceedingly genial. No man had a heart more ten- 
der and sympathetic. His soul melted with all in afflic- 
tion. In the domestic circle he shone with peculiar 
virtues and attractions ; and sad indeed must be the little 
family band where he was as the sun in the firmament. 
Having faithfully served the Master on earth, our friend 
has gone to his reward in the everlasting mansions. 
Peace and joy be thine, gentle spirit ! 

From Rev. Thomas Winter, nov^ of Philadelphia, 
my father's friend from his boyhood, the clergyman 
who married him in Salisbury : — 

July 24, 187 i. 

I do not take " The Watchman," only as it is occa- 
sionally lent me by a friend. I had therefore to wait 



Rev, yohn Jennings, 137 

a while before I could see the biographical sketch of my 
departed friend. 

The sketch is very good, but does the subject no 
more than justice. It would hav^e been easy, had it been 
deemed necessary, to say with equal justice much more. 
It must be a great comfort to you, and to the dear chil- 
dren, to read the testimony of the wise and good to the 
excellences of him whose loss you deplore. Those 
excellences are now forever safe ; and he is safe. Try 
and see it to be so. You have much, very much, as 
you know, for which to bless God. 

Yet how different is the present scene in 3'^our deso- 
late home from the one when you both stood before me, 
full of hope and gladness, Oct. 9, 1834 i But such is 
human life ! Many days have passed since then. 

From Mr. Kemp, who was long and intimately 
associated with my father in the service of the 
Tract Society : — 

I am so sad and astounded by the suddenness of the 
intellisrence of the death of mv verv dear friend, that I 
can hardly write to-day, and yet feel that I must not 
delay to express my deep sympathy. 

Had I been at home but one hour before the funeral 
service, you may be sure I should have been present to 
take a last look on earth of one I loved so Ions: and so 
well. 

I only repeat now, what I have said time and again 
during the past fifteen years or more, that he was a good 
man in the vetv best sense of that term, — lovinsf, kind to 
all, full of tenderness and sympath}', as I well know from 



138 Memorial of 

personal experience. During our entire acquaintance I 
am not aware that there ever was a word or look between 
us that was not of kindness. Amid the conflict in Tract- 
Society matters through which we passed together, I do 
not remember that we ever differed even in opinion upon 
what was right and best. How many hours, yes, weeks, 
in the aggregate^ have we talked together, and made 
confidants of each other ! What a comfort to believe 
we shall be united again ! It makes us almost rejoice 
that our friend has passed over, and is beyond the reach 
of care and sorrow. 

May the Lord bless you most abundantly ! 

Your sympathizing friend, 

N. P. Kemp. 

From Rev. C. H. Bowers, D.D., Clinton, Mass.: — 

He was a man of genial spirit, and one it was very 
easy to love. His intercourse with his brethren was 
marked by great courtesy, and by those qualities that 
reveal the true gentleman. 

He loved to preach, and had more than ordinary 
success as a minister of the gospel. His voice was 
musical and sweet, his manner gentle, and his style 
attractive. He was gifted with great power of tender 
and affectionate appeal ; while the substance of his 
discourses was not wanting in masculine vigor of thought 
and expression. If he never published nmch, it was not 
because his sermons had not far greater merit than many 
printed discourses, but because of a modesty that never 
courted publicity. In 1856 he preached the annual ser- 
mon before the Massachusetts Baptist Convention in 



Rev. yohn yennings. 139 

North Adams ; and it was a sermon of great beauty 
and power. He was honored at other times with appoint- 
ments to services of special interest, and always acquitted • 
himself in an able manner. 

As a pastor he had no superiors. Always kind, 
cheerful, and full of sympathy, he won the heart at once. 
His counsels were full of generous feeling, and his 
prayers had a soothing and tender effect. 

Bro. Jennings was characterized by a great deal of 
practical wisdom and business enterprise. It was under 
his ministry that the churches he served in Worcester, 
Fitchburg, and Westfield, built their present sanctuaries. 
His knowledge -and counsel contributed largely to the 
success of these enterprises. The church in Westfield is 
one of the most imposing and beautiful of its kind in the 
State. ' 

From Rev. G. B. Wilcox, pastor of the Congre- 
gational church in Fitchburg during my father's 
residence there, and now of Jersey City : — 

As to your dear and honored father, and my dear 
brother, I don't know that I can add any thing of value 
to what will have already occurred to you. He was 
one of the sincerest, truest Christian friends I ever had. 
It is not always that two ministers of different denomi- 
nations pass years in so constant intercourse without 
even the trace or shadow of a jar. He is one of the 
very first brethren whom I should want to meet in 
heaven. 

When I went to Fitchburg, there was some coolness 
between his church and mine, which he and I determined 



140 Memorial of 

to extinguish as soon as possible. It was as one means 

toward that that I went with Mrs. W to board at 

•your house. One evening, I remember, Rev. H. W. 
Beecher, who was to lecture in town, was invited there to 
tea ; and, after learning who I was, he exclaimed. " Well ! 
a Baptist and a Congregationalist minister living together ! 
I guess the millennium is coming." 

It was in prosecution of the same plan to promote 
good fellowship between the churches that your father 
and I projected a course of union Sabbath-evening ser- 
vices. The Baptist, Methodist, and two Congregational 
pastors shared in it, one preaching (at each of the 
churches in rotation), while the others were present in 
the pulpit. The sight of the four brethren in harmony 
did the churches and the community good. It was more 
than once said that the three who sat still preached a 
louder sermon than the one who stood up. 

Nothing more delighted your father than any such 
measure for bringing Cliristians of different names into 
brotherly communion. I never saw a particle of bigotry 
in him. He overflowed with charit}'-. And I was glad 
to learn the other day that the mutual love he did so 
much to introduce still survives in full strength, and ' 
grows among the churches of Fitchburg. 

He was not of a sanguine or buoyant temperament ; 
and I remember our condolino- with each other over the 
'trials of our work ; but I never saw in him any thing like 
repining or murmuring at his lot. He bore his burden 
meekly, sometimes sadly, but never fretfully. A good 
man he was ; and I hold his memory among the treasures 
of my life. 



Rev. yohn yennings. 141 

From Rev. J. T. Massey of Bellingham, my 
'father's classmate : — 

I remember him with deep interest and affection. 
His cheerful, earnest piety, his genial, social disposition, 
his integrity, and his delicate sense of honor, secured 
for him the confidence and love of his fellow-students. 

He was a successful pastor : God's blessing attended 
his ministry. And through life he possessed the affec- 
tion and confidence of those whom he served in the 
gospel. 

I saw him for the last time at the- Ministers' Institute 
in Watertown, in January. I was delighted with the 
prospect of a promised visit at an early day, and antici- 
pated much pleasure in talking about our student-life, 
our classmates, and our experience in the ministry. But 
death frustrated our plans, and removed him to the 
saint's everlastins: rest. 



'& 



From Mr. Charles Ballard, of the church in 
Worcester : — 

It has afforded me much satisfaction that I was per- 
mitted to be the agent in extending the invitation for 
your dear father to visit us, and also that I was allowed, 
in the providence of God, to contribute in any small 
degree to the comfort of his family on the day of the 
funeral-service here. 

I know, that, when he was with us on that Sabbath, he 
expressed much joy ; and it was to all who heard him, 
especially to those who were members during his pas- 
torate, an occasion of much happiness. 



142 Memorial of 

From Rev. R. K. Bellamy, Chicopee Falls : — '■ 

It was my privilege to know Rev. John Jennings long 
and well. And it is not too much to say, that to know 
him was to love and honor him, ahke as a man, as a 
brother, and as "a good minister of Jesus Christ." 

His large, cordial, warm heart, so full of human and 
Christly sympathies, made him universally beloved. And 
his spotless life and courteous manners, joined with his 
clear, strong intellect, made him as universally respected 
in every circle in which he mingled. The gospel, as it 
fell from his lips, had peculiarly the ring of the " silver 
trumpet," — sweet, winning, penetrating, — with a power 
by every audience felt, with a tenderness by every Chris- 
tian welcomed. 

His departure has been a loss to the pulpit, the church, 
and the world ; for in each he was a shining light. But 
in the dear home-circle — to him, in its tender love, the 
best earthly type of heaven — the vacant place he has 
left is largest and saddest of all. 

May /lis Father and Saviour sustain you in your be- 
reavement, as he was sustained in his peaceful departure ! 

From Rev. E. C. Ambler, pastor of the First 
Baptist Church, Stanford, N.Y. : — 

I was perhaps more intimately acquainted with him 
than any other person. We were school-boys together. 
When converted, we were baptized into the fellowship of 
the church on the same day ; and for several years we 
were co-workers in the Sunday school and in the prayer- 
meetings. 



Rev, yohn Jennings. 143 

I was the first person to whom Bro. Jennings made 
known his feelings in regard to preaching the gospel. 
We found ourselves the subjects of like impressions; and 
often did we retire to the mountain-top near the church 
and near his mother's house to pray for divine help and 
guidance in this most solemn work. 

After he received a license from the church to preach, 
I often accompanied him to his appointments, when 
crowds of people would assemble to hear the " boy- 
preacher," who was very youthful in his appearance. 
Great interest was apparent wherever he preached. I 
remember well the first text he preached from before the 
church. Much had been said about his youthfulness, 
and some thought him too young. He preached from 
I Sam. xvii. 29 : " And David said, What have I now 
done ? Is there not a cause ? " Like David, who went 
out with sling and stone to meet the defiant Goliath of 
Gath, he had entered upon a warfare against the enemy 
of God and man ; and though some might attribute his 
so doing to the pride of his heart, or to some wrong mo- 
tive, he asked the question, " Is there not a cause ? " 
The cause of Jesus ! The cause of salvation from sin 
and from its eternal consequences to the soul, — this was 
ever the theme of his preaching. 

He was then an apprentice in Danbury ; and though 
faithful to his employer, yet he was ill at ease, for he felt 
that he ought to be "about his Father's business." He 
made it a subject of earnest prayer; and at last his brother 
George came to his assistance, and he bought his time, 
and entered upon a course of study for the ministry. 

Even when a boy he was dignified in his deportment, 
and freer from the follies of youth than most young peo- 



144 Memorial of 

pie j and, ever from the time he became a member of the 
church, he commanded the respect of all who knew him. 
He was an humble, faithful, and affectionate preacher ; and 
many souls were brought to Christ through his instru- 
mentality. " The memory of the just is blessed." 

From Mr. S. J. Axtell of Grafton : — 

If feelings of appreciation for your reverend and hon- 
ored father were the qualification for such a service as I 
now undertake, I can say that it would be well done by 
me. I fear I cannot do any thing like justice to him. 

I can say with truth, that no man possessed the love 
and confidence of the people in Grafton, of all denomina- 
tions, as did Rev. John Jennings ; and we all mourned 
when he left us to serve the church in Worcester. He 
came here a young man, and took our hearts fully into 
sympathy with himself in the work in which he was en- 
gaged. 

I have, thought that his heart always wandered back 
to old Grafton, and that he sometimes almost wished 
himself with us. 

When he engaged to supply us for three months, I knov/ 
it w^as a great pleasure to him that he was to occupy his 
old pulpit. And the pleasure was equally great on our 
part, that we were to enjoy his services and company once 
more. When he came in so much bodily weakness, but 
all alive in his work^ it seemed just as fresh as when, 
thirty-five years before, he had preached the word of 
God's truth to us. 

I do not believe he ever preached anywhere else as 
he did in Grafton. He remarked, when he came to us 



Rev. yohn Jennings. 145 

last, that he would as soon finish his life-work here as 
anywhere; ^nd he did. I never .shall forget his last ser- 
mon, from the text, " I am the Way, the Truth, and the 
Life." He left upon our hearts the impression that he 
would soon realize this truth in the better land ; for we 
could see that he had failed in health, which caused 
much anxiety on our part, and many prayers for his re- 
covery. But God took him ; and fragrant is his memory 
with us. 

At the meeting on Sunday evening after his death, the 
time was occupied with remarks in memory of him by a 
number of the older members of the church. 

From Rev. Dr. J. G. Warren : — 

In response to your request, that I would contribute a 
mite to the sketch you are preparing of the life and 
labors of your lamented father, permit me to say I do 
not think that in my state of health I could write any 
thing worthy of the theme. He was, in every way, one 
of those choice spirits of whom there are too few in this 
dark, rough world, and whose lustre increases as they re- 
cede from us. 

From Dr. Henry Dyer, formerly of Boston : — 

Although I am not in possession of any correspond- 
ence with your late lamented father, yet, having known 
him intimately for a long period, it is in my power, and 
will afford me great pleasure, to bear my testimony to 
some of the many excellent traits which adorned his. 
character. 

I became acquainted with him in early life. While 

»3 



146 Memorial of 

yet a student at the Newton Seminary, he was introduced 
to our family ; and well do I remember how his visits 
were enjoyed by all, but especially by my mother, who 
loved him as a son ; partly, perhaps, because he bore her 
maiden name, but especially on account of his genial dis- 
position and his engaging manners. 

After his settlement as a pastor, whenever any con- 
vention was held in Boston, John was ever a welcome 
guest. A room was always reserved for him, and he 
seldom failed to occupy it. Later in life, after my father 
had left the city, it was my good fortune to receive at my 
own home those " conventional " visits which cemented a 
life-long friendship, and made him ever dear to us all. 

Were I to single out from the rnany fine traits in his 
character that which I consider the most marked feature 
in it, I should speak of the innate kindness of his 
heart, which manifested itself at all times and on all oc- 
casions ; thereby securing to him a host of warm friends, 
while winning the esteem of all who knew him. It might 
be truly said of him that he was weighed down with the 
burdens of others, and sympathized too deeply in others' 
sorrows. By way of illustration, I cannot forbear to 
relate an interesting incident which occurred at the time 
of the funeral-service of my sainted mother. 

At that moment, when all hearts were shrouded in 
sadness, unrelieved by any cheering remarks from the 
officiating clergyman, your father arrived, and, like a sun- 
beam bursting suddenly through the clouds, diffused such 
floods of light and comfort by his words of consolation 
and tender sympathy, dwelling upon the virtues of the 
deceased, and recalling many pleasant associations con- 
nected with her life and history, that our gloom and sad- 



Rev, yohn yennings, 147 

ness were dispelled, and every countenance brightened 
with joy and hope. 

Did space permit, I might go on to enumerate other 
traits in your father's character, which, all combined, 
served to make up its symmetry, — such as his wisdom, 
his untiring industry, his prudence, his forethought, his 
self-abnegation ; but this I leave to other hands, and 
close this note in assuring you that my recollections of 
your father are pleasant, and only pleasant, and will be 
cherished while life and memory last. 

From Rev. S. F. Smith, D.D. : — 

Newton Centre, Oct. 2, 1872. 
I have learned with great pleasure that you have un- 
dertaken to prepare a memorial of your beloved father. 
It is due to such a man that his record should remain in 
some enduring form for the gratification of his many 
friends, and as an influence still active in the world. He 
was one of the loveliest and choicest of men. His whole 
temper and spirit were a beautiful exemplification of that 
gospel which he preached so effectively, and loved so 
deeply. In his entire character he resembled the beloved 
John, who leaned on the bosom of our Lord, and was 
admitted into close intimacy with him. He was so at- 
tractive and benignant in manner, that every one could 
easily approach him ; yet he displayed so much of dignity, 
that it would have been impossible to trifle with him. 
He was full of sympathy for all that were in distress, and 
so ready in resources, that he not only had a heart to 
pity, but also a hand to help. I never heard him speak 
unkindly of his brethren. He uttered no harsh criti- 



148 Memorial of 

cisms. He was keen to discern and to feel injustice ; but 
he exercised that charity which thinketh no evil. In his 
prayers he had the faculty of bringing men near to God ; 
in his preaching he held them face to face with the truth, 
till they could not do otherwise than yield to its claims : 
hence I am not surprised at the efficiency of his min- 
istry. I do not wonder that he had such power over 
men, to bring them to Christ, to wield their energies, and 
to set them to work. By his own loving and lovely spirit 
he won them, he attracted them, he controlled them. In 
his presence men seemed to have a sweet facility of 
being fashioned after his own likeness, as the softened 
wax takes the impress of the seal. 

His capabilities as a minister were no more wonderful 
than his capabilities as a man. He seemed fitted for in- 
tercourse with the world in all its varied aspects. He had 
an eye to see what was requisite in emergencies. He 
had sagacity to discover the best means of accomplishing 
the best ends ; and he had the courage, when he saw 
the end to be reached, to press right on towards its ac- 
complishment. 

But his greatest excellence, and that which, in con- 
nection with his natural endowments, gave him his power, 
was that he walked with God. His piety was ardent and 
sincere, but unassuming, — characterized by meekness 
and tenacity rather than by boldness, but in all circum- 
stances unwavering. And it is less a calamity than an 
honor that in the glory of his age his ever-busy hand sud- 
denly rested. His life-work was fully done. His hand 
had wrought, his heart had loved, his life had testified. 
What more was needed ? And so he was not ; for God 



Rev, yoJin yenniiigs, 149 

took him. And he had this testimony, — that he pleased 
God. 

It is a blessing to the world that such a man lived 
and loved in it. It is an honor to have been the wife of 
such a husband, the child of such a father. May his 
mantle rest on many a successor ! 

I doubt not that with such a subject, in the loving 
hands of a daughter to whom he was so tenderly at- 
tached, and who reciprocated all that attachment, the 
work you propose will be a success, and the precious 
memorial of a father's excellence, linked with the golden 
chain of a daughter's affection, will long remain a 
cherished record, perpetuating among his many friends 
the sweet record of so blameless a life. 

From Rev. Mr. Cutler's New- Year's sermon, 
Jan. 3, 1871 : — 

The last sabbath of spring was bright with all that 
the sun could bring ; but darkness was in one house, 
where the man of God, the husband and father, 
closed his eyes upon the home he had made, and made 
glad, and upon the faces of those he loved best. 

Nevertheless, the dimness was not such as theirs who 
have no hope : for they could trust that he had entered 
into rest ; as he said himself, " Why keep "me ? 
Heaven will be so glorious ! — No anxious care ! " 

The ripened excellences of Christian character yield- 
ed us their fruit a little while ; and his form was taken 
away to its resting-place among a people who had loved 
him as their pastor. 

" And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, 
Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from 

X3* 



150 Memorial of 

henceforth : Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from 
their labors j and their works do follow them." 

It only remains to add the most touching tribute 
of all, from his youngest daughter, whose life has 
been passed in complete silence from her eighth 
year. No words can express the unwearied efforts 
of our father to make her burden lighter ; and she 
must miss him, more than can be expressed, to the 
end of' her life. When the great wave of crushing 
sorrow broke over her, her pen was unloosed, and 
she wrote her first lines of verse ; which, if they 
are not above criticism (as they could hardly be 
expected to be), yet express truly and tenderly, and 
not without beauty, her love and grief and precious 
memories. 

Father, while in anguish bending 

O'er thy grave with bitter tears, 
All my thoughts are upward tending ; 

For this earth no brightness wears, — 
'Upward, where thy weary spirit 

Now hath reached the longed-for rest ; 
Where in peace thou dost inherit 

Joy which cannot be expressed. 

In a world no discord knowing, 

Now thy sighs are turned to praise : 
Heavenly radiance God is throwing 

Over all his darkest ways. 
Thou dost read the loving purpose 

Of earth's ministries of pain \ 
And the links that death had broken 

Now, in heaven, are clasped again. 



Rev. John Jennings. 151 



Earth's long day of toil 15 ended ; 

Ended all its joys and woes : 
Earth's repose has softly faded 

In the sleep that Christ bestows. 
Thou the Master's path hast trodden ; 

And like him, with upraised hand 
In a parting benediction, 

Thou hast reached the blessed land. 



Though I miss, each day more sadly, 

All thy tenderness and love ; 
And my heart with eager longing 

Follows to thy home above, — 
Mine shall be no hopeless sorrow : 

In thy joy my heart shall live 
Till sweet sleep and blest awaking 

To thy child the Lord shall give. 
June 26, 1871. 



Not in earthly wealth or pleasures 

Hath our Father made us blest ; 
For our sweetest, holiest treasures 

Are the dear ones laid to rest 
Precious lessons we are reading 

From our loved. and sainted dead, 
As each passing year, receding, 

Leaves its halo round their head. 



They have passed beyond the vision 

Of our earthly love and care : 
But the eye of faith still sees them ; 

And our grief is turned to prayer. 
Twenty years of care and blessing 

Hath our loving Father given j 
Though 'twas but a broken circle, — 

Four on earth, and four in heaven. 



152 MemoriaL 

Now once more our band is broken ; 

And our tears again must fall 
At the loving mandate, giving 

Him we loved the best of all. 
By his bedside sadly watching 

Through the weary weeks of pain, 
Love and tender care unceasing 

Strove to keep him, all in vain. 

Since our treasures are in heaven, 

Since our choicest gems are there, 
Shall we not with cheerful effort 

For that better home prepare ? 
Till each severed link united 

In a purer, stronger chain. 
We shall know the glad fruition 

Of these hours of grief and pain. 
Jan. 7, 1872. 





XIII. 



^rv'^ CCORDING to his own record, my father 
?j/i'7, preached 3,358 times during his ministry, — 
86 times after he resigned pastoral labor. 
)^^ It was his habit to preach one written ser- 
mon each Sabbath, and to make use of 
brief notes for the other. This plan was not in- 
variable, but he adopted it generally. Some of 
his earlier efforts are given, — a few of the frag- 
mentary notes above referred to, and a number 
of sermons. Though these, in their unfinished char- 
acter and seeming abruptness, but poorly repre- 
sent his preaching, they will be valuable to many 
who remember the living, loving preacher, and 
who can recall the elegant form, the dignified 
bearing, the kindling eye, the speaking face, the 
voice so musical and perfectly modulated. 

During the earlier years of his ministry, the 
themes he selected for his sermons were the simple 
truths of the gospel, presented with great direct- 



154 Memorial of 

ness, and a firm belief that all must be persuaded 
by them. Later, when experience and labor had 
subdued somewhat his youthful confidence, his 
preaching was more practical, — for the edification 
and exhortation and comfort of the church, — 
though never wanting in afiectionate earnestness, 
or tender appeals to those without the fold. His 
sermons were never strictly doctrinal ; but his own 
sober, well-considered views of doctrine were close- 
ly interwoven with his practical, persuasive preach- 
ing. 

And, toward the close of his ministry, the sub- 
jects of his sermons show how his earnest expec- 
tation and his hope were constantly entering into 
that within the vail, — "Like Him," "Intimations 
of a Future Life ;" " The Course Finished ; " " The 
Expected Crown ; " " The Spiritual Body ; " " Gain 
to Die ; " " The Worshippers of the Heavenly Jeru- 
salem ; " " The Sleep of the Beloved ; " " Coming 
to Mount Zion." The majority of his sermons, 
during the last few years, were upon these and 
kindred themes : but he was not forgetful of the 
spiritual wants of his people ; and he estimated, as 
never before, the beauty and attractiveness of all 
the Christian graces. Such themes as, " Union, 
Peace, and Blessedness ; " " Live peaceably if pos- 
sible ; " " Lifting up Holy Hands, without Wrath and 
Doubting ; " " The Good Fight ; " " Patient Waiting 
for Christ ; " " Ye are bought with a Price ; " " Man 
Lost ; " " Christ our Passover," — were frequently 
presented. 



Rev, yohn yennmgs. 155 

The titles of occasional sermons exhibit his in- 
creasing love of Nature : " His Clouds ; " " The 
Lilies ; " " The Corn of Wheat ; " " Green Pastures 
and Still Waters." And, for the comfort of his 
beloved flock, he loved to present themes like 
these : " Light is sown for the Righteous ; " 
"The Spirit's Witness;" "The Angel of the 
Lord encampeth ; " " Strong in the Lord ; " " My 
Shepherd ;" " All Things for Good ; " "The Higher 
Rock." 

Some of his words are here ; and, though like the 
body without the spirit, they are all that is left of 
the pastor once so beloved, now so well remem- 
bered. 



THE CROSS THE CHRISTIAN'S GLORY. 

A SERMON WRITTEN IN HARTFORD, IN 1829. 

" But God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our 
Lord Jesus Christ." — Gal. vi. 14. 

The apostle who wrote these words was a man of 
great talent and extensive acquirements. He was brought 
up at the feet of the learned Gamaliel, and undoubtedly 
prepared to take an eminent station among the Jews. 
We find him in early life laboring with his utmost ener- 
gies to destroy the Church of Christ. 

Therefore he had, humanly speaking, great sacrifices 
to make in embracing the Christian religion. But, from 
the time that the Spirit of God touched his heart, the 
love of Christ held triumphant sway in his breast. By 



156 Memorial of 

becoming a Christian minister, he exposed himself to 
severe hardships. But he was ready to be bound, yea, to 
suffer death for Christ. He was willing, as every Chris- 
tian should be, to consecrate himself wholly to Christ's 
work, and to glory only in him alone. 

We propose to offer some of the reasons why Chris- 
tians should glory only in the cross of Christ. 

I. All other glorying is in vain, 

Man may glory in the world, its riches, its honor, or its 
pleasures ; but he will find that vanity is enstamped upon 
them all. 

We may glory in men ; but God has said, " Cursed is 
he that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm." 

We may place confidence in our friends, and look to 
them for support and comfort \ but frequently we find 
instability where we looked for firmness, and frowns in- 
stead of smiles. And, if our friends remain true to us 
in life, they must fail us at the hour of death and at the 
bar of God. 

It is vain for the Christian to glory in his own strength 
and righteousness. The apostle, notwithstanding all his 
ability, was led to say, " All my sufficiency is of God." 
What Christian has not learned, to his sorrow, that his 
own strength is perfect weakness. 

Neither can the Christian glory in his attainments 
in knowledge, or even in his emotions of love to God 
and man ; but he must say with Paul, " By the grace 
of God I am wh^t I am." 

II. Christians should glory in the cross of Christ, 
because by it they are delivered from the power of sin. 



Rev. yohn ye7tmngs, i^y 

In a natural state we are under the control of sinful 
d:isires. Whan led by the Spirit to seek for deliverance 
from this control, we look for it in God's word, in the 
prayers of Christians, in our own exertions. But all is in 
vain, until we behold upon the cross the Saviour of men, 
and hear him cry, " Father, forgive them." Then the 
yoke of Satan is taken from the neck ; and the soul, freed 
from cruel bondage, can sing of the precious blood of 
Jesus, and through the earthly pilgrimage ascribe its sal- 
vation to him. Here is the foundation of all our hope, 
"and other foundation can no man lay." 

III. Christians should glory in the cross alone, be- 
cause that by it they obtain the victory over their spiritual 
enemies. 

In this imperfect state we are sanctified but in part. 
The temptations which our own wicked hearts, the world's 
allurements, and the enemy of all righteousness, offer to 
us constantly, can only be overcome by the grace which 
is given through the Redeemer's death. From the cross, 
He says to the tried and tempted soul, " Peace be unto 
thee." 

IV. By the cross the believer triumphs over death. 

It is interesting to contemplate the Christian in his 
pilgrimage. His struggles with sin and with the enemies 
of God. He bears his trials patiejidy, and meets his 
foes in the spirit of his Divine Master. He must, like 
others, die ; but he looks forward to that hour as to the 
time of his deliverance. We may go down with him into 
the vale of death. When there is a mortal paleness on 
his cheek, there is glory in his soul ; and, while heart and 
14 



158 Memorial of 

flesh fail, he exclaims with holy triumph, " O death ! 
where is thy sting ? O grave ! where is thy victory ? " By 
the cross of Jesus, the Christian may thus triumph; and 
when the glorious resurrection morning shall dawn, he 
will rise to immortality. 

V. By the cross of Jesus, heaven is secured and the 
Church eternally saved. 

No one will acknowledge that he does not expect 
to be admitted to the joys of the paradise of God ; but 
there are many different views of the method by which 
that blessedness may be obtained. One expects to go 
there as a reward for his deeds of benevolence ; but how 
will he be disappointed on arriving at the gate of heaven, 
to find it there proclaimed, in living characters, that sal- 
vation is alone by the cross of Christ, and that the 
doctrines of that cross enforce purity of heart as well as 
of life. Blessed be God ! while every other method fails, 
the way of salvation by the cross will remain, and the 
saint shall be made happy in the kingdom of God's 
glory. While every other righteousness is utterly insuf- 
ficient^ the righteousness of Christ is abundant. 

By the cross, the Church shall be brought home to 
glor3^ Through the ceaseless ages of eternity the un- 
numbered millions who shall have been redeemed out of 
every nation and kindred and tongue under heaven shall 
sing the song of redeeming love through the cross of 
Christ. In this let every Christian glory ; in it let him 
trust, that by it he may be saved. 

VI. The cross of Christ reflects superior glory upon 
the character of God, and eternal honor upon his name. 



Rev. yohn yemiin^s, 159 

Ho.v respleacbnt and illustrious will be the glory re- 
vealed in the last day, when the whole triumph of the 
cross shall be exhibited by the bursting graves of the 
saints, and by the great assembly of the first-born in 
heaven, who shall surround the throne, and join in the 
universal song of salvation to God and the Lamb for- 
ever. 

The Christian should do all for the glory of God ; and 
therefore it is his duty to glory in the cross, that he may 
thus render his humble part of the honor which is due to 
God alone. 

Thus I have endeavored to notice some of the many 
reasons why Christians should glory in the cross alone. 

In view of this subject I remark : — 

1. How great is the efficacy of the cross. What 
glorious victories have been and shall yet be accom- 
plished by its power. 

2. We cannot escape if we neglect its blessings. 
" He that believeth not shall be damned " was a part of 
Christ's injunction when he commissioned his apostles 
to preach the gospel. 

3. What an honor to be a faithful servant of Christ, as 
was the author of our text. 



i6o Memorial of 

THE BENEFITS OF CHRISTIAN OBEDIENCE. 

A SERMON WRITTEN AT NEWTON IN 1 83 1. 

"If ye know these things, happy are ye if do them." — John 

xiii. 17. 

The verses preceding the text exhibit our Lord as a 
pattern of Christian humility and affection. Having 
washed the feet of the disciples, he seated himself, and 
enforced the example by a few plain and loving words. 
Oh, what a display is here of that love with which the 
blessed Redeemer loved his followers, the partners of 
his toils, even unto the end ! 

We may regard him as saying in the text, " If ye 
know that ye ought to be thus humble, then happy are 
ye if ye possess such humility." 

All who believe the Bible to be God's word will 
admit the importance of knowing the truth therein con- 
tained. But, if it be important to know the truth it is far 
more important to feel its controlling influence upon the 
heart and life. A man may have great knowledge of 
revelation, and yet fail of heaven, because he will not 
submit to its holy requirements. Much as we esteem the 
intellectual knowledge of the Bible, we count that man 
more blessed, who, having been taught of the Spirit, is 
drawn to obey the commandments of God. Such a 
man, though he cannot express his thoughts about the 
religion of Christ, can express religion itself. 

It is not the " forgetful hearer," but the " doer of the 
work," who shall be " blessed in his deed." 



Rev. yohi yeniiings, i6i 

The object of this discourse is to consider some of the 
benefits of Christian obedience. 

I. It is attended with full evidence of personal piety. 
Some, who hope in the pardoning mercy of God, walk 

in darkness and have no light, because they are in a 
course of disobedience ; and, instead of complaining, 
they ought to chide themselves for neglect of duty. All 
who faithfully discharge their Christian duties, enjoy a 
comfortable evidence of adoption into the family of 
Christ. Their souls are filled with love to God, and they 
enjoy near and intimate communion with him. It is 
the " willing and obedient " who " shall eat the good of 
the land." How can he enjoy a sacred peace with God 
who neglects his positive commands .'' How can he have 
clear anticipations of heaven who is out of the path 
which leads directly to that blessed abode into which 
none but faithful servants shall be admitted ? 

" Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect 
unto all thy commandments." Without an evidence of 
personal piety, the Christian is unfitted for the enjoyments 
and duties of a saint on earth. He is expected to be 
active in advancing Christ's cause ; but how can he en- 
gage in this labor without a consciousness of personal 
interest in the Saviour for whom he labors. Those who 
have been most active and successful in the blessed work 
have had the flame of love burning brightly in their own 
hearts. For the love of Christ constraineth them, and 
the evidence of this love in his heart is surely a benefit of 
great value which will follow humble obedience. 

II. Christian obedience will cause growth in spiritual 
gifts and graces. 

14* 



1 62 Memorial of 

There is such a thing "as growing in grace, and in- 
creasing in spiritual gifts." The ability to discharge with 
confidence the duties of exhortation, prayer, and religious 
conversation, may be termed a spiritual gift. We have 
known those who were at first hardly acceptable to be- 
come really gifted in this respect ; and we do not hesi- 
tate to attribute this improvement to the blessing of God 
upon humble Christian obedience. But growth in the 
graces of the Spirit is even more important. And the 
secret of the spirituality of some men whom we admire 
and respect for their piety is to be found in their faith- 
ful performance of every Christian duty. Wherever the 
child of God may be, under whatever circumstances of 
trial or joy, he greatly needs the graces of the gospel. 
And, abounding in these, he goes through life, diffusing a 
sacred influence, and closes his course in the triumphant 
consciousness of having " kept the faith." 

III. Christian obedience has the promise of divine assist- 
ance, 

God rewards the obedience of his people by the fuller 
display of his love ; and the faithful Christian may 
expect to hear the voice behind him, saying, " This is the 
w^ay : w^alk ye in it." They who acknowledge the Lord 
in all their ways live under the constant guidance of the 
blessed Comforter. It is unreasonable for a person to 
look for the direction of the Spirit, who refuses to submit 
to such direction. And many possess great gifts, who 
accomplish little, because their abilities are not rightly 
directed. All planting and watering will be in vain, if 
God withhold the increase. 



Rev. yohii yennings. 163 

IV. Christian obedience has the promise of the appro- 
bation of God. 

Of all the benefits which follow Christian obedience, 
this is certainly the greatest. Deprive the Christian of 
the consciousness of the divine approbation, and his 
heart is sick within him, his arm unnerved for effort, and 
from his lips comes the plaintive moan^ '' Oh that I knew 
where I might find him ! " The disapprobation of God 
is all that is needed to spread the gloom of eternal night 
over the regions of despair. 

In view of these reasons for Christian obedience, who 
would not desire to walk in all the commands of the 
Lord, to enjoy constant evidence of adoption into the 
family of Christ, to increase in every gift and grace of 
the Spirit, to enjoy the exalted privilege of commun- 
ion with God, and, above all, to go through life, and 
sink in the embrace of death, and rise to the regions of 
endless day, under the smiles of God his Creator and 
Redeemer ? 

In view of this subject, we learn why so many who 
understand the truth remain destitute of its influence. 
But if the heathen who never heard of a Saviour must 
be silent at the last dread tribunal, how closely must the 
mouth of that man be sealed " who knew his duty, but 
did it not"! 

We learn why so few Christians abound in the graces 
of the Spirit. We have no need to wonder at the 
want of piety in professing Christians, when so many of 
them neglect the duties God has enjoined upon them. 
Here is the reason why the churches so often languish, 
and spiritual declension spreads itself over them. If 
they will labor and pray and watch as they ought, there 



164 Memorial of 

will be a constant revival. Zion will arise, and the glory 
of the God of Zion be seen everywhere. Sinners will 
see it, and repent and believe. What a glorious day 
awaits the church of God, when the kingdom and the 
greatness of the kingdom shall be given to the people of 
the saints of the Most High ! 

Oh, my brethren, think of the rapture which will fill 
your souls, if you have obeyed Christ on the earth, 
when you join the countless throng of the redeemed to 
enter the fields of endless glory, to put on the fadeless 
robe of Christ's righteousness, and to begin the un- 
ending song of praise to Him who was slain, and hath 
redeemed us by his blood, and who ever liveth to make 
intercession for us at the right hand of the Majesty on 
high ! 



ADDRESS 



BEFORE THE SOCIETY OF MISSIONARY INQUIRY AT 
NEWTON, SEPT. 3, 1873. 

In addressing a missionary, the celebrated Hall re- 
marked, " Few things more powerfully tend to enlarge 
the mind than conversing with great objects, and en- 
gaging in great pursuits." Even a general glance at the 
great subject of missions must make this truth obvious. 
It must draw forth every noble faculty of the soul. The 
subject makes an irresistible appeal to our compassion, 
to our philanthropy, and to our love of triumph, in view 
of ultimate success. 

The Christian looks abroad upon the world, with its 
myriads of inhabitants, and thinks of the glorious effects 



Rev, yohn yennings. 165 

which the gospel is destined to produce among them. 
His heart swells with unutterable joy, and his mind ex- 
pands to grasp the mighty thought of millions of souls 
now in the region and shadow of death, coming up before 
the throne, redeemed by the atoning blood of the Sa- 
viour. This impression, upon a general survey of the 
subject, is abundantly strengthened when the mind is 
permitted to pause and consider all its aspects. 

There is no light in which it can be viewed which will 
not contribute to the expansion of the mind. If we sur- 
vey the enemies yet to be overcome, though they seem 
invincible, how glorious is the thought that all these 
mighty hosts shall be vanquished ! The power and the 
number of her foes, instead of causing the Church to re- 
treat, urges her on, and inspires her sons with greater 
ardor for the conflict. The soldiers of the cross lean 
on the arm of Omnipotence, and have the unfailing 
promise of victory. There is something grand in the 
simplicity of the means by which this victory is to be 
gained. 

We do not go forth with the shouts of battle, or the 
weapons of death. We go at the whisperings of the 
Spirit, and wield the simple but mighty weapons of 
the gospel. 

The life of the missionary must be eminently adapted 
to expand and ennoble the heart and mind. He must 
of necessity dwell more on the subject ; and is it too 
much to conclude that the powers of his mind will be 
more enlarged than others t 

And we can see one reason why so many Christians in 
this land possess contracted minds. We know full well 
that there are many churches, and even ministers, who 



1 66 Memorial of 

do but little for the spread of the gospel among the 
heathen. And the secret of their inactivity is, that they 
do not read or think or pray upon the subject. No soul 
which has the flame of divine love burning within can 
reflect on the condition of the heathen, and the abundant 
provision made for their salvation, and not feel con- 
strained to aid them. 

To the importance of this enlarged heart and mind 
to the minister, we only allude. If he is to go far hence 
to the Gentiles, he cannot do without it ; if he is to 
spend his days in this land, the people of his charge 
will famish unless his soul is thus expanded. 

If, brethren, we need this elevation of mind to engage 
in the labors of this blessed cause on earth, how much 
more to enjoy the society into which we shall be ad- 
mitted when these toils are over ! To participate in the 
joy of minds so greatly enlarged, to sing a song so 
exalted, to shine as stars in that celestial firmament 
forever, — oh ! who is able ? 

The circumstances, my brethren, under which we as- 
semble this evening, are peculiarly interesting. Some 
of our number meet with us for the last time in this ca- 
pacity. The day is at hand when they are to be scat- 
tered in different directions in the vineyard of our com- 
mon Lord. Soon the altar of this our little sanctuary 
will no more smoke with their offerings. To them we 
say. Sweet as has been our counsel together, happy 
as have been the seasons we have together enjoyed in 
this privileged retreat, yet we joyfully bid you go. We 
rejoice that you are longing with emotions unutterable 
to go forth and tell the story of the cross. Go speed 
the flight of the angel bearing the everlasting gospel 



Rev. yohn yenning s, 167 

to those who dwell on earth ! Go, stand by the pillow 
of the dying heathen, and point his last gaze to Calvary. 
Whatever, my brethren, may be the scene of your fu- 
ture labors, to that field we wish you a joyful welcome. 
But, ere you depart, accept the pledge we now present 
you of our best wishes and our constant prayers. When 
you are far from us, in the hour of trial, as your thoughts 
linger around this sacred eminence, oh ! then cheer your- 
selves with the thought that on this hallowed spot our 
prayers are ascending for you. It is a glorious work to 
which we are called. We may indeed make the grave 
an earlv bed ; but we could not die in a nobler cause. 
May the Lord grant us grace equal to our day, grace 
to go onw^ard, trusting in Christ's promise, until the king- 
doms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our 
Lord and his Christ, 'and every nation, kindred, and 
tribe shall "crown him Lord of all " ! 



THE IMPORTANCE OF AN AFFECTIONATE 
MANNER IN THE PREACHER. 

GRADUATING ADDRESS AT NEWTON, AUG. 20, 1834. 

Every, minister of Christ should remember that men 
are more easily attracted than driven. He is the spirit- 
ual guide of the flock. How important that he lead 
them onward to heaven ! He is to cheer and support 
the weary and oppressed ; but his efforts must be unsuc- 
cessful, unless attended by signs of affection. Does he 
approach the chamber of the sick ? He is welcomed as 



1 68 ■ Memorial of 

an angel of mercy ; but how chilling his presence, if, in- 
stead of a manner which indicates that his sympathies 
are all enlisted, he exhibits the coldness of the philosopher 
or the stateliness of official distinction. Every feature 
and motion should show, that, if possible, he would bear 
a part in the suffering he witnesses. 

But, preaching being the great business of the minister, 
it becomes a question of deep interest, how he may most 
successfully accomplish it. An affectionate manner is 
best adapted to the subject on which he speaks. He is a 
messenger from heaven who comes to persuade men to be 
reconciled to God. He is, in the highest sense, an ambas- 
sador of peace. While his-arguments may have a wide 
range, there is one point around which he is ever to linger, 
— Christ and his cross. His great object is to exhibit 
the Saviour of sinners. He is to urge the necessity of 
regeneration from a view of the depravity of the heart j 
but his manner should show that he loves not to contem- 
plate the ruins of our nature, but desires to present Christ 
as the means of restoration. It is his duty to point to 
the terrors of Sinai, and let the sinner hear from the 
perfect law of God, tjiat he is condemned already, and 
that the wrath of God abideth on him. But it should be 
evident that he himself deeply feels the sinner's dan- 
ger, and wishes to lead him to the only Refuge. The 
preacher, " knowing the terrors of the Lord," is to " per- 
suade men." But it should ever be manifest that the same 
heart which kindles into rapture while dwelling upon the 
love of God can also tremble in describing the pouring- 
forth of the vials of divine indignation. While he is not at 
liberty to omit any part of the gospel, he may present it 
all in an affectionate manner. He is to speak of heaven 



Rev. John yennings. 169 

and hell as the Bible speaks of them. Some of his 
hearers may disbelieve the existence of future miser}^, be- 
cause of its horrors. He should by no means introduce 
■ this awful topic unnecessarily into his sermons ; but he 
must never shun it, and, when mentioned, it should be 
in scriptural phraseology. And his manner should evince 
the deepest love to the souls of his hearers. There is 
no need that he who describes the tumult of the elements 
should assume the blackness of the cloud upon his own 
face. The different degrees of success in preachers who 
teach the same sentiment, abundantly proves the impor- 
tance of an affectionate manner in the preacher. The 
Holy Spirit is indeed the effectual agent in the conversion 
of sinners ; but we cannot suppose that he operates con- 
trary to the laws of the human mind. One with an ap- 
pearance calculated to repel, rather than to win, ad- 
dresses the message of God to minds which will not be 
forced. If he presents the enrapturing theme of the 
love of God, it is in a manner which nearly robs it of its 
attractiveness. He utters " the terrors of the Lord " 
with a stormy aspect, which leads one to suppose him to 
be attempting to add, by his voice or scowl, to a message 
already invested with the terrors of the Almighty. The 
effect of such efforts is to irritate the minds of his 
hearers. 

Others may transport their hearers into the regions of 
poetic excitement; and, fearing to disturb the dreams 
of some delicate worldling by the thrilling announce- 
ments of the Bible, they soften where they cannot avoid 
them. Both these extremes should be avoided. The 
preacher should deliver his message with fidelity, just as 
he receives it from God, but in a manner that shall at 

IS 



170 Memorial of 

once show that he deeply feels the responsibility of his 
station, and that he most ardently longs for the salvation 
of his hearers. 



Notes. — Grafton, November, 1838. — Ps. xxxvij. 31. — "The 
aw of his God is in his heart." The righteous man has permanent 
support and unfading prospects. He is upheld. I. The law is 
in his heart, i. A knowledge of the law as a standard of holiness, 
as a rule of action. All may and ought to know the law of God. 
2. The law is habitually referred to. It is not laid away. It is 
practical. 3. It is loved as a transcript of God's holiness, as a 
means of sanctification. 4. It creates a sense of obligation. 5. It 
is a shield and support. 6. A means of growth. II. Its effects on 
character and conduct. ' This law we commend. 

Worcester, Oct. 15,1842. — Luke ii. 8-14. — " And there were 
shepherds abiding in the field. And, lo, the angel of the Lord 
came upon them," &c. — Sacred mystery. Interesting scene, i. 
Night, natural and moral. 2. The shepherds, Moses, David. 3. 
The angel, great event, surprise. 4. The glory of the Lord, seen 
in his greatest humiliation. 5. The message, " Fear not ; " the 
joy ; good tidings. 6. The sign, the swaddling-clothes, the man- 
ger. 7. The confirmation, the heavenly host, their interest always. 
8. The doxology, — Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, 
toward God, among men. In this scene we are all interested. He 
will come again. 

Oct. 23, 1842. — Matt. xi. 28-30. — " Come unto me," &c. — What 
infinite mercy in Jesus ! Consider him (i) As Master, he is kind, 
reasonable, his service easy, he is faithful, gives a rich reward ; 
(2) As Instructor, he has knowledge of the truth, of men, apti- 
tude, integrity, authority, zeal, tenderness; (3) as a Pattern of 
meekness, purity, activity, self-denial, love; (4) as a Refuge, — 
safe, capacious, rich in supplies at hand. Rem. i. We all need 
him. 2. H-ave we accepted him ? 

Feb. 29, 1844. — Luke xv. 17. — "And when he came to him- 
self," &c. — The sacred writers use the most glowing figures. 



Rev, yohn Jennings. i 7 1 

Madness is in their heart. What a picture ! Insanity. We here 
see the sinner coming (i) To behold things in their true light ; 
(2) To see his own danger ; (3) To accept his Father's provisions. 
Rem. I. O depravity! 2. What is it to be lost? 3. Precious 
gospel ! Let us fly to Jesus ! Let the Christian be grateful ! 

Woonsocket. On the return of the three-months' volunteers. 
Acts XV. 26. — " Men that have hazarded their lives." Men hazard 
life for gain, for ambition, for patriotism, for Christ. Our thoughts 
are led (i) To the war, its cause and history, success and repulse ; 
(2) Its results ; (3) Our fears ; (4) Our hopes; (5) Our duty, — to 
enlist, encourage, pray. 

Westfield, Dec. 5, 186S. — 2 Cor. iv. 6. — "The light of the 
knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ." — To 
the Scriptures we owe all we know of God. Men reason. God 
reveals. Redemption is for his glory. It displays (i) His good- 
ness, love, bounty, forbearance, not on earth alone, but forever ; 
(2) His holiness, without stain; (3) His wisdom, the time wisely 
chosen, he magnified the law, hatred of sin, and love of the sinner ; 
(4) His power and sovereignty ; he created ; he came to save ; his 
glory in the resurrection. Rem. i. Redemption the last, the 
brightest, and the best display of God's glory. The green earth 
the living tribes of men — but all shall fade ; ^his never. 2. Ob- 
ject of the gospel ministry, — to hold up Christ. 

Jan. 2, 1869. — Rom. xiii. 12. — '* The night is far spent," &c. — 
We pass another line. Let us review. We are prone to forget. 
The text an admonition, i. The night far spent. Of probation. 
Have we lived to purpose .'' How much time wasted .'' Mental 
and moral night passing away. The morning-star appears. The 
mind and heart of humanity act as never before. Before Christ a 
little light. The last fifty years. Commerce. Art. Steam. Elec- 
tricity. China. Africa. 2. The day is at hand, — spiritual day. 
3. Cast off the works of darkness. Unsatisfactory. Rest only 
in God. 4. Put on the armor of light, — girdle, breastplate, hel- 
met, all the graces of the Spirit. 



172 Memorial of 



GRATITUDE. 

A SERMON PREACHED IN BEVERLY ON THANKSGIVING DAY, 

DEC. 2, 1835. 

"And be ye thankful." — Col. Hi. 5. 

The text is an exhortation to gratitude. No emotion 
can be more proper on this day of our annual festivities. 

On this day, when we are laden with Jehovah's mer- 
cies, when every fireside is cheered by more than wonted 
smiles, when the voice of health and joyousness rings 
through our dwellings, when our garners are full, and 
prosperity is within our gates, when the doors of our 
sanctuaries are thrown open in peace, — on this day 
of such favors, how unbecoming would be the spirit of 
ingratitude ! Cold indeed must be the heart which does 
not, as it mingles in the scenes of this anniversary, send 
up to the bountiful Giver of all our mercies a glowing, 
grateful tribute of love. 

Gratitude is an emotion of the soul produced on the 
reception of favors. It may be graduated by various 
circumstances. The character of the donor, the nature 
of the gift, and our own necessities, will determine, to 
a great extent, the degree of our gratitude. 

Gratitude from us to God. Does it become the hum- 
blest subject to be grateful when the^king condescends 
to bestow a favor upon him ? How much more does it 
become us, when, from his throne in the heavens, the 
King of kings and Lord of lords deigns to regard us, 
and to bestow choice blessings upon us ! The innumer- 
able temporal benefits we have received, all for our 



Rev, yohn Jen^iings. 173 

thanksgiving. Our life has been preserved another year, 
because God has sustained \\s, and preserved us from 
dangers seen and unseen. 

Our wants have been supplied. To the cruel pinch- 
ings of want and hunger we have been strangers. Who 
has supplied our daily wants ? If you were destitute, 
and some friend should regularly supply your wants, 
would you not be grateful } God has done this ; and why 
not be grateful to him ? True, you do not see his hand ; 
but he it is who gives the former and the latter rain, 
sends forth the rays of the sun, and brings in, at length, 
a rich and plentiful harvest. 

Our spiritual mercies, in a special manner, require 
our gratitude. All times are suitable for the praise of 
God for the gift of his Son ; but when we, as to-day, 
ascend an eminence, the first object that should claim 
our attention, and draw forth our praise, is the Lamb of 
God who taketh away the sins of the world. To his 
death we owe all the glorious hopes wdiich the gospel 
presents us. All our religious privileges have come to 
us as the result of his sufferings. And the free enjoy- 
ment of all these blessings is yet continued to us. Why 
are we not under the iron rod of a despot .'' Why are 
not our sanctuaries closed, or desecrated by the reckless 
invader ? Why are not the garments of our Zion rolled 
in blood, and her sons clasping the flaming fagots? It 
is because God has preserved to us this our beloved in- 
heritance. Surely our gratitude for national blessings 
should be fervent. 

Think of a year in which God should dry up the 
streams, and blast the crops. Think of our condition as 
a nation, should he withhold his blessing and protection. 



174 Memorial of 

Above all, think how desolate would be our condition, 
deprived of the spiritual life and light which he alone 
can give. 

How grateful should be the son of tender and watch- 
ful parents ! the man rescued from death ! the slave set 
at liberty ! the prodigal restored ! 

Above all, how grateful should be the sinner, in this 
day of hope, in sight of the cross, and amid its blessings .' 

The effect of such gratitude will be to elevate the 
character of the day's services. 

Some make it a day of unhallowed mirth ; some of 
labor ; some a duty. To us it ought to be a privilege. 
We should feel as when we look over the letters of a 
friend, and recount his favors. This would prevent the 
abuse and perversion of our mercies, which is too preva- 
lent. The carousing and intemperance in eating and 
drinking, which is too common, is quite different from 
the custom of the Puritan fathers who instituted the fes- 
tival. And this perversion and abuse, it is to be feared, 
is not an entire stranger to the sanctuary. True Christian 
gratitude would change all this. This gratitude ought 
to make the day. 

Such gratitude would do much toward the perpetuation 
of our rich and invaluable national blessings. What so 
complete a shield of a nation or a people as grateful 
hearts ! 

In view of all these considerations, let us do our part 
to-day, and pray for continued and extended favors. 



Rev. John Jennings. 175 

THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST. 

A SERMON PREACHED IN GRAFTON, NOV. I, 1838. 

" Now, if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his." 

— Rom. viii. 9. 

The text contains a positive, plain test of Christian 
character. It places before every professed Christian a 
mirror of such clearness and power as to enable him to 
discover what is his title to the incorruptible inheritance 
in the skies. Here is the perfect Pattern which every 
Christian should imitate, the mould to which he should 
submit his own spirit and temper. 

Our profession may be most exemplary, our religious 
belief most clear and correct, our standing in society 
most influential, but, without the spirit of Christ, we are 
none of his. Not only must the doctrines of the cross 
regulate our understanding, and control our judgment, 
but the spirit of Christ must warm, purify, and control 
our hearts, and form them anew in the image of Him 
who was holy, harmless, and undefiled, and separate from 
sinners. 

Oh ! my brethren, do you ask with trembling solicitude, 
Am I truly one of God's children ? Settle this momen- 
tous question, not by what you understand of the truth, 
but by the spirit you possess and exhibit. 

In order to try our own spirit by this perfect standard, 
we must know what is the spirit of Christ. 

And let us not be content with a mere spark of the 
holy flame which burnt so brilliantly and purely in his 
breast. Let us not think ourselves fit for heaven because 



1^6 Memorial of 

we can discover some faint resemblance in our spirit to 
the blessed temper of Him who went about doing good. 

I. The spirit of Christ is a pure spirit. 

Holiness is written upon all his conduct and precepts. 
He smiled upon purity, and cast his frown, with pity, 
upon sin. 

Among the holy precepts which dropped from his lips, 
this one glistens like a pearl, " Blessed are the pure in 
heart, for they shall see God." 

Amid the corrupt influences of sin, his character re- 
mained unsullied. He breathed a higher, purer atmos- 
phere than those around him. Temptation found in his 
heart no response. The fountain of his moral action, in 
the midst of contamination, remained perfectly transpar- 
ent. '^' Though made a sin-offering for us, he knew no 
sin." Though he bore the mighty load of our sin, yet 
his holy soul was unscathed by its blight. 

In the sunshine of his presence every plant of holi- 
ness was green and flourishing, while every shoot of sin 
withered and decayed. He was perfectly holy in thought, 
word, and deed. And of this spirit we must largely par- 
take, or we are " none of his." In the light of his ex- 
ample we should ask ourselves, Do I hate and discoun- 
tenance sin ? Is iniquity rebuked by my example ? Am 
I, on the whole, becoming more pure and holy ? If we 
are compelled to answer in the negative, it is high time 
for us to seek an interest in the Saviour's pardoning love. 

II. It is a spirit of devotion. 

The Saviour evidently meditated much on the great 
interests of his kingdom. He often looked forward to 



Rev. yohn yennings, 177 

the bright realities of heaven, to the glorious results of 
his sufferings, to the exalted bliss of the church tri- 
umphant, and to the endless misery of those who re- 
ject the gospel. He was often enrapt with celestial glo- 
ries, and, again, convulsed with anguish, and bathed in 
bloody sweat. In his habits of devotion^ he was most 
unfaltering, yielding not to the most urgent claims of 
exhausted nature. What affecting witness to his devotion 
was borne bvthe midnight winds and the mountain trees! 

He believed that the cause for which he came into the 
world was, beyond every other, precious ; and he drew 
his vital breath in its promotion. 

And now, how much of this spirit do we possess? 
Do we breathe the air of devotion ? Do we catch fre- 
quent glimpses of heaven? Are we cheered and ele- 
vated by communion with God ? Is our happiness 
identified with the prosperity of Zion ? Does our soul 
yearn with quenchless desire for the salvation of sinners ? 
Do we feel and act as if heaven and hell were realities ? 
Do we make the world stand aside for our seasons of 
devotion ? Or are we indifferent, neglectful, and formal 
in our devotions ? O my hearers ! answer these ques- 
tions, and say are you his, or are you not ? 

III. It is a spirit of self-denial. 

We often can do much for others without any sacrifice 
of personal comfort. But how different the spirit of the 
Master ! He laid aside the glories of heaven, took the 
form of a servant, — he who was high in immortal honor, 
and perfect in unending bliss, — for guilty man's redemp- 
tion. Oh ! behold him veiling his glory in the shame 
and degradation and suffering which attended his sojourn 



178 Memorial of 

here and his death on the cross ; and all this for his bit- 
ter enemies ! And how do our small sacrifices compare 
with this glorious example ? Are we willing to deny 
ourselves for his sake ? to give up ease and pleasure, 
time, money, comforts, and even life, for his sake and 
the gospel's ? 

IV. It is a spirit of benevoleiice. 

Every step of our Saviour's life was marked by his 
love for man. He was constantly bestowing blessings. 
His path was crowded with the needy and suffering who 
longed to catch the gaze of his benignant eye, and feel 
his power to heal and to bless. 

His benevolence was particular. No object was too 
humble for the notice of Him who watches the fall of the 
sparrow, and numbers the very hairs of the head. None 
were passed heedlessly by, or lost in the crowd. He 
heard the rich ruler's believing application, noticed the 
poor woman who touched the hem of his garment, and 
felt for the widow at the bier of her son. 

His benevolence was expansive^ — a deep, exhaustless 
fountain, whose waters flowed on far as human misery 
extends. He had blessings for all. The evidences of 
his benevolence could be seen everywhere, among rich 
and poor, respectable and profligate. It is impossible 
to take the measure of his benevolence. 

And how does our benevolence look in the light of his 
example ? What does it lead us to do ? He gave him- 
self for us ; and what have we done for him ? He could 
not save us without self-denial, toil, and suffering ; and 
we cannot preach the gospel to every creature as he has 
commanded without some measure of the same self-de- 



Rev. yohn yennings. 179 

nial. How half-hearted are our prayers, how small our 
contributions, how feeble our efforts ! Without much 
of this benevolence, we are none of his. Say, brethren, 
have we, in this respect, his spirit ? 

V. // is a spi7'ii of activity. 

Such a pure, devotional, self-denying, benevolent 
spirit could not but be an active spirit also. Not a 
moment of his precious life was wasted. He sought 
opportunities to accomplish his Father's business. Is 
this our spirit ? When we think of his journeyings, 
fastings, labors, at all seasons and hours, how much 
are we like him ? Are we disciples of him who labored 
thus, and yet so stupid and inactive when the world is 
perishing ? 

VI. It is a spii'it of deadness to the world. 

His kingdom was not of this world. Its honors and 
pleasures had no charms for him. His eye was fixed 
steadily on the joy set before him. Is this our case 'i 
Rather, how tenacious is our hold of this world ! How 
great our anxiety to secure its treasures and its fading 
glories ! Is this like Christ ? Time forbids us to pursue 
this subject. Now let us examine ourselves. 



i8o Memorial of 

SAFETY IN GOD. 

A SERMON PREACHED IN WORCESTER, OCT. 14, 1842. 

" He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide 
under the shadow of the Almighty." — Ps. xci. i. 

This psalm is a beautiful specimen of inspired Ori- 
ental poetry. It is the effusion of one who had seen 
the need of a divine retreat from the ills of life, — who, 
having passed through the bitter waters of sorrow, comes 
to stand on the firm foundation laid in Zion. It contains 
allusions to the customs of hospitality among Eastern 
nations. If a man received another, even if he were a 
robber, into his house, he was bound to treat him as a 
friend, to defend him even at the hazard of his own life, 
or to meet the scorn and contempt of his countrymen. 
From this custom the Psalmist borrows the beautiful 
conclusion of the text. If man will defend him who 
throws himself upon his protection, how great the secu- 
rity of him who dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High. 

I wish, in this discourse, to establish the comforting 
truth, that there is eiitire safety in God. Yes, my hearers, 
amid the distractions of this world, the failure of earthly 
hopes, the temptations of Satan, and even in the looking 
forward to the judgment to come, with the utmost confi- 
dence I can declare to you, there is safety in God. 

The text expresses a condition and a result. 

I. The condition : He that dwelleth iii the secret place 
of the Most High. 



Rev. yolut yennings. i8i 

1. Such a one forsakes every other refuge. We are 
prone to trust in other things ; but, in the state here ex- 
pressed, there is a renunciation of self, of our own 
strength and wisdom. We often feel that we can order 
our own affairs. Men talk of their foresight and wisdom 
as though they could unlock the mysteries of Providence, 
and guide their frail bark across the troubled waters of 
life. But even the mightiest minds need to sit at the 
feet of Jesus. All our righteousness, too, is as filthy 
rags. The fiiirest character among men is faulty before 
God. Renouncing all strength, we must rely on the arm 
of the Lord, Forsaking our own wisdom, we should ask 
of God, who giveth liberally, and upbraideth not ; and, 
laying aside our own righteousness, we should trust in 
the merits of Jesus. The soul driven from every other 
refuge must seek its home in God. 

2. He inaintains habitual communion luith God. He 
is admitted to the most endeared friendship and familiar 
acquaintance. How much more might we enjoy in 
God's presence by dwelliiig there ! Mark the expression, 
"He that dwelleth.'''' Our visits to the throne of grace 
are too fitful and infrequent. We feel like strangers in 
that blessed retreat. If some earthly friend, possessed 
of every thing to make us happy, should throw open his 
estate, his house, his library, his garden and fields, and 
bid us revel at pleasure in every delight, how soon 
should we embrace his offer, how frequently enjoy his 
provisions ! But oh ! how faint is this picture compared 
to the rich provisions offered to him who dwelleth in the 
secret place of the Most High ! 

3. He yields implicit obedience to the will of the Most 
High. It would be inconsistent to cast ourselves upon his 

16 



1 82 Memorial of 

protection and support while refusing to follow his direc- 
tion. We need to say sincerely, " Lord, what wilt thou 
have me to do ? " If the path of duty were always pleas- 
ant, with no thorns, no rugged steeps, no stormy winds or 
pelting rain, then all would follow it. But to deny un- 
godliness and every worldly lust ; " through floods and 
flames, if Jesus lead to follow where he goes," — is quite 
another thing. We are to obey his commands just as 
they stand, without modification or mutilation. We 
have no right to ask his blessing and protection in sin 
or disobedience. The shadow of his protection will 
never be spread over the path of error or iniquity ; for 
his approving smile is withheld. But he who is admitted 
to his secret place will exercise the fullest confidence in 
his will, and strongly desire to accomplish it. 

II. The safety afforded. The term " shadow " indi- 
cates the presence of God, and its blessed influence upon 
those who put their trust in him. It indicates nearness. 
When we are in the shade of an object, we are near to 
it. Refreshment is also indicated. Nothing could be 
more delightful than the cooling shade to the weary 
traveller. Christ is beautifully presented in Isaiah as 
"the shadow of a great rock in aweary land." The 
protection of the Almighty is also clearly implied in abid- 
ing under his shadow. 

To speak without a figure, there is entire safety for all 
who put their trust in God. 

There is protection from ourselves, from wrong judg- 
ment, from sinful actions, from the world and its temp- 
tations. Every step we take is in danger ; and the 
whole history of the past proves to us that we have no 



Rev, yohn yenniiigs, i8 



J 



safety but in God. How many have begun life with 
fairest prospects ! but, trusting in something short of an 
almighty arm, have made shipwreck. God alone can 
deliver us from the blighting influence oi error. We may 
think our own reason is a sufficient guide ; but its rays 
are too feeble and flickering to lead us across the wilder- 
ness of this world, and especially to light the passage to 
eternity. 

In God alone we are safe ; and no action, no thought, 
should be allowed, but such as we can carry into the 
secret place of the Most High. It is wisdom to apply 
this test to our daily life. 

How could we bear affliction, were it not for this 
divine support ? When sorrow overtakes us, it is sweet 
to make oux refuge under the shadow of his wings till the 
calamity be overpast. And he alone can keep us safe 
from the temptation to sin, and from every ill. Now let 
me entreat you all to adopt these words as the language 
of your hearts : — 

" Behold the ark of God, 
Behold the open door ! 
Oh ! haste to gain that dear abode, 
And rove, my soul, no more." 



184 Memorial of 



RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT. 

A SERMON PREACHED ON THE LAST SABBATH IN THE 
OLD HOUSE OF WORSHIP IN FITCHBURG, FEBRUARY, 
1854. 

" Hitherto hath the Lord helped us." — i Sam. vii. 12. 
" If thy presence go not with us, carry us not up hence." — Ex. 
XXXV iii. 16. 

To guide in some measure in profitable channels the 
gushing thoughts and tender emotions of this occasion 
is all that is hoped. We meet this afternoon, in this 
house of God; under new and peculiar circumstances- 
These doors were never before opened on such an occa" 
sior^ as this. These walls never echoed with a farewell 
service like this. There were never just such emotions 
in the occupants of these pews until to-day. In these 
courts many have heard their last sermon, and enjoyed 
their last public service on earth. At this altar many 
have taken their last look of loved ones ; but to-day we 
come to take leave of the altar itself^ — to say farewell to 
these sacred walls, hallowed by a thousand tender recol- 
lections. To those who engaged with toil and sacrifice 
in the erection of this house, and have worshipped within 
its walls for twenty-three years, this is an affecting hour ! 
God grant that it may be a profitable one to us all ! It 
seems fitting, on this occasion, to connect the past with 
the present and the future. God^s help in the past ^ Mid 
the need of his presefice in the future^ seem to be appro- 
priate themes for this service. 

And now, as we look back upon the past, I seem to 



Rev. yohn Jennings, 185 

hear these brethren and sisters say, with peculiar empha- 
sis, " Hitherto the Lord hath helped us." It has been 
seen in the spiritual growth of the church. God has 
given the ministr}^, thus supplying the spiritual nourish- 
ment needed. He has led and fed his flock like a shep- 
herd. In the erection of this house he granted his 
aid. There were many dark hours as to the enter- 
prise ; but out of all your fears the Lord brought 
deliverance. In the support of regular worship here, 
he has been indeed a helper; and, in the measure of 
harmony which you have enjoyed, his counsel has pre- 
vailed. 

Especially hath God helped you by the diffusion of his 
Holy Spirit. This has been the spiritual birthplace 
of many souls. In addition to the usual influences of 
the Spirit, and the occasional conversion of souls, there 
have been several seasons of revival when numbers have 
been added to the Lord. Whatever the instrumentalities 
used, the work of conversion is God's work, and the 
glory belongs to him. 

And now, brethren, if you were to leave an inscription 
upon these walls, what should it be but our text .? And 
as we leave this place of our solemnities, for a new and 
more spacious temple, what prayer is more appropriate 
than that we have chosen ? " If thy presence go not 
with us, carry us not up hence." Better to remain here 
with God than occupy the grandest cathedral on earth 
without him. 

The term " presence " in this text means special favor. 
God is everywhere, but his smile is granted to his ser- 
vants when they earnestly and devoutly seek him. 
Standing, as we now do, on the threshold of this hal- 

16* 



1 86 Memorial of 

lowed place, — ready to step into the new temple which 
we have been enabled to erect for his praise, — oh ! let 
us adopt the spirit of the text, and rely upon God alone 
to sanction and sanctify the removal. 

1. The fact that the house is his makes his presence 
desirable. We are but stewards of the great Proprietor. 
That we might secure a better locality, be better accom- 
modated ourselves, and open a wider door to those who 
are constantly coming into our midst, and thus reach 
many souls with the blessed means of grace, — these were 
sufficient motives to arouse us to the work now finished. 
The house is his in the highest and holiest sense. As 
we therefore give to God his own, how important that he 
be with us ! 

2. His presence is the source of all the happiness we 
may expect there. The most perfect array of means 
will be all in vain unless he add his blessing. You 
might as well expect light in nature without the sun, as 
joy in the sanctuary without the smile of God. 

Every thrill of love in the hearts of the blessed in 
heaven, all the fulness of joy, is in his presence. If 
God is the happiness of the temple above, how much 
more is his smile needed to aid the imperfect services of 
earth ! 

3. Our success depetids upo?i his favor. Especially do 
we hope for the conversion of sinners ; but this is his 
work. By his blessing, we may confidently expect that 
sinners in great numbers will eternally bless God for the 
erection of that house of worship. 

How shall we obtain this blessing ? 
I. By union:, " If two of you shall agree, it shall be 
done." 



Rev. yohn Jennings. 187 

2. By gratejid remembrance of past goodness. When 
the heart is tender and soft from gratitude, we are in the 
fittest frame to ask his blessing. If we go up to the 
house of the Lord grateful for the mercies we have re- 
ceived, we may expect still larger measures of prosperity. 

3. Humility should be cherished. The work of our 
hands is but imperfect : " God resisteth the proud." 

4. Let us go luith earnest supplication. He will be 
sought unto. He heareth prayer. 

5. Let us go with obedient step, ready to make all 
sacrifices, that wanderers may be brought home, and 
the Church blessed. 

A few parting words to the impenitent. To the 
Church, tender recollections. 



CHRIST'S PRESENCE. 

A SERMON PREACHED AT NORTH ADAMS, BEFORE THE 
STATE CONVENTION, IN OCTOBER, 1 856. 

" And, lo ! I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." 
— Matt, xxviii. 20. 

These words close Matthew's record. They dropped 
from the lips of the Son of God just as he was ascend- 
ing to his mediatorial throne. That was a scene to be 
enacted only once. His disciples had been with him 
constantly, had wept at his death, and rejoiced at his 
resurrection ; and now he imposed upon them, and all 



1 88 Memorial of 

who should come after them, — upon us, — the mighty 
work of giving his gospel to the world, at the same time 
uttering the cheering words of our text. 

This promise spreads the broad shield of divine pro- 
tection, extends the strong arm of almighty aid, opens 
the inexhaustible fountain of divine consolation, for 
every member of His church to the remotest time. Each 
may fall back upon it as the unrepealed decree of his 
risen and ascended Lord, the bright bow spanning his 
path in every hour of labor or suffering. 

And Jesus is able fully to make his promise good in 
all its richness of blessing. 

The presence of Christ in his Church is deemed a fitting 
theme for the present gathering of his people. We pro- 
pose, as we may, to consider its reality, its necessity, and 
its co?iditions. 

I. Its reality. It is no unmeaning array of words. 
As the great commission, though uttered to a few disci- 
ples, extended in its authority to all the Church, so this 
glorious promise carries its inspiration to every Christian 
heart. It is the motto inscribed upon the banner of the 
cross, where every eye may read it, and every heart 
repose on it. 

As the air encircles and enfolds the earth and each 
individual on its surface, so the presence of Christ is the 
spiritual life of his people. None are so remote or so 
retired as to elude his presence, or so blessed as not to 
need it. The humblest path of duty is brightened by 
his smile, and the severest trial is tempered by his hand. 

Christ is with his people as a matter of fact, — a glo- 
rious, soul-stirring reality. The high and the low, the 



Rev. yo/in yennings, 189 

rich and the poor, the bond and the free, may equally 
claim the promise of his presence, and do actually enjoy 
it. 

His presence is with the faithful pastor amid the 
ceaseless wear of his work. When he appears before 
his people, he leans upon the arm of the faithful Prom- 
iser ; and returning, perhaps saying, " Who hath be- 
lieved our report.** " How comforting his presence ! In 
the not less difficult and arduous duties of an overseer 
of the flock, he has the same support. Amidst a gain- 
saying world, in reproving the delinquent, in beseech- 
ing men to be reconciled to God, in directing the in- 
quirer after truth, in comforting the mourning and the 
dying, — at all times, and in all exigencies, Christ's pres- 
ence is his strong tower of defence. 

The same Presence is the reliance of all the Church : 
it makes the sanctuary a delight. In the impressive 
service of the Lord's Supper, he heads his own table. 
In all social gatherings of his people for prayer and 
praise, he has a peculiar delight. He enters the Church, 
and all anger, malice, and evil-speaking retires, and love, 
joy, peace, long-suffering, and every grace abounds. 
And in the Christian's closet, Christ loves to be present. 
No scene of open conflict or public pleading can equal 
that when the saint in the dust, in secret, intercedes for 
a dying world. 

Nothing can atone for Christ's absence. Learning 
and talent in the ministry and in the membership, com- 
modious and splendid sanctuaries, are valueless without 
Him whose presence can hallow the humblest abode, and 
without whom the palace may be a dungeon. 

In her mission to a dying world, the Church is sur- 



iQO Memorial of 

rounded and protected by the presence of Him " who 
went about doing good." 

He has commissioned his Church to go into all the 
world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 

Every true missionary is in intimate company with his 
Master. In his name only will he preach and toil, by 
his grace endure hardships, and die in his embrace 
when labor and hardships shall end. 

Christ's presence is with his Church to the end of the 
world! 

These are precious words, which shall be realized by 
all the faithful. 

Clouds may gather, and tempests break upon the 
Church ; but He will be with her until the world's redemp- 
tion shall be accomplished. 

II. Its necessity. The same voice that bids the Church 
preach the gospel also utters the positive declaration, 
" Without me ye can do nothing." 

The treasure of the gospel is committed to earthen 
vessels, to whom the inspiration of his presence and the 
wisdom of his counsel are indispensable. 

He must have the central place, charging his truth as 
with electric power, and cheering his servants with his 
smile. All his true servants feel their insufficiency. 
Even the apostles were weak, until he gave them 
strength. And from the days of Paul to those of Brai- 
nerd and Martyn and Judson, all the most eminent labor- 
ers have been those who rested most completely on him 
for strength and guidance. Are not our concerts of 
prayer for missions the plain confession of our weakness 
and the acknowledgment of his strength ? 



Rev. yohn Jennings, 191 

This necessity is so obvious that it need only be men- 
tioned. We now consider 

III. The conditions of Chrisfs presence in his Church, 
Vast meaning is sometimes gathered in the monosyllable 
and^ as some broad river collects its waters in a narrow 
pass to display its power. " Go ye, therefore, and teach all 
nations ... to observe all things whatsoever I have 
commanded you : and^ lo ! I am with you, " &c. It is 
when we are doing Christ's work that his promise is valid. 
In the field of Christian toil, while thrusting in the sickle, 
and harvesting the ripened grain, his presence may be 
expected. Not when folding our hands in indifference, 
or when traversing sea and land for worldly gain, but 
when teaching all nations. Working for Christ, we may 
be sure of working ivith him. 

He subjects the elements to the promotion of his glory. 
The skill of man, the wondrous improvements of art, are 
made subservient to his work. He himself is in the 
field. He lays at our feet every facility for labor, and 
fixes steadily above us the star of promise. 

Shall splendid ships whiten every sea, and steam pal- 
aces float upon every ocean, and no missionary ship bear 
its precious freight to the gentiles ? Shall the network 
of iron rails annihilate distance for the merchant and the 
politician, but bear no messenger of life and peace ? 
Shall grief sigh, and joy exult, and victory shout along 
the airy strings, and those strings never echo the tri- 
umphs of redeeming love ? No: all these are his minis- 
ters. All is designed to cast up a highway for him ; 
and, aiding this good design, we may expect the fulfil- 
ment of his promise. 



192 Memorial of 

And now, brethren, may we not see where our great 
strength lieth ? Not in creed or theory, not in man, not 
in organization, but in a Hving, present Christ. 

Brethren of the Massachusetts Baptist Convention, 
our work is to secure Christ's presence in our own land. 

Teeming with its rapidly-increasing peoples, it has 
before it an amazingly important destiny. In this land 
there is great destitution of the means of grace, and 
most alarming disregard of God and his truth. Even 
our own beloved New England shows a wide-spread and 
fearfully-increasing neglect of the Sabbath. The num- 
ber of church-members decreases, in proportion to the 
rapid increase of population, in some quarters. Only 
about one-quarter of our people are connected with the 
Sabbath worship. The design of this convention is to 
find a habitation for God where he is not worshipped. 
Every church wisely established is the Saviour's resi- 
dence, from which his light is to radiate, and his Spirit 
flow forth. Each point we gain should be as a new 
spring of living water, where thirsty souls may be re- 
freshed. When we have established, and nurtured to its 
mature strength, a church of Jesus Christ, we have erect- 
ed a monument which shall endure when the pillars of 
earthly fame have crumbled into dust. And far beyond 
this, even to the end of time, shall sound the cheering 
words, " Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of 
the world ! " 



Rev. yohn Jennings. 193 

IXTIMATIONS OF A FUTURE LIFE. 

A SERMON PREACHED IN WOONSOCKET, JANUARY, i860. 

" For we know in part." — i Cor. xiii. 3. 

Every thing here is incomplete. We have hints of 
great truths, glimpses through the cloud of light which 
will one day fill heaven with its radiance. We do not 
perfectly know any thing. A limited portion only of the 
circle of truth is known to us. But truth is consistent 
with itself. The part knowni cannot contradict the un- 
known, — indeed, it may often suggest the unknown. 
We know in part, but that part is constantly exciting 
us to look onward and upward. This life is an un- 
finished scene, — the introduction, the commencement, 
of a career. We observe and feel enough to give to 
thought a stimulus that carries it far beyond the do- 
main of present experience. We are thus expectant, — 
reading the invisible in the visible, thinking of more 
than life realizes. This life is an unfinished story. It 
must have a sequel. 

I. I mention life's l?7'i(f space as a hint of another 
life. We bear to the tomb one who has completed the 
threescore vears and ten, and we lav in its earlv bed the 
infant of days ; and the inquiry rises to our lip, " For 
what sufficient purpose is all this ? " Why does the infant 
bring such a world of love, such a wealth of blessing, 
if its brief day is all ? And even fourscore years are 
too short to meet the wants of thought. AVhen we look, 
at the child, born but to be enfolded in the arms of 
death, yet endowed with faculties, which, but for the early 
17 



194 Memorial of 

frost, would have ripened into beauty and strength and 
wisdom, we are repulsed by the strange and awful 
mystery. It cannot be ! That bud of being has not 
been created to be forever blasted : its flowering and 
fruit will be in eternity. Such is the hint from the 
briefness of our life, which reason and philosophy alike 
hail with delight. The story must not remain half told. 
/There is to be an eternal completion of what is here 
begun. The life which has awakened such love and 
sympathy in your heart is not put out in the grave where 
you have laid your loved one. You have had the intro- 
duction here : there the volume will be unfolded. 

2. The present state and powers of the hiiinan mind 
strongly hint of its future. The commonest mind makes 
rapid strides in know^ledge. The subtle but powerful 
law^of growth in the mind shows its wondrous mechanism. 
The magic of mental law and interior harmony shows 
the existence of celestial powers. The great creating 
Artist has been here. To say that the human soul is an 
accident, is the height of folly. Now the faculties of this 
soul, in their rapid growth and wonderful achievements, 

eem to be undergoing a preparation for a life to come. 
All these faculties look upward and onward into the 
mighty future for their full development. This life is 
but a fraction of our being. Judged by the indications 
of the present, and enlightened by God's Word, our 
prospects are boundless. 

3. The 7naterial system which is man's home inti- 
mates his higher home. Here wonder and amazement 
overcome us. Who can look upon the " spangled 
heavens, a shining frame," without awe in his soul ? 
And all. this system is so permanent. Nature is unvaried. 



Rev. yohn Jennings. 195 

and her seeming change is but a mode of her being. 
Does all this exist for itself? The explanation is found 
in moral, intellectual, and spiritual life. The eye and 
the sun exist for the mind. Mind is the high priest of 
matter. In the material world I see a pleasing prepa- 
ration for the future, and find a hint of probability which 
overleaps the grave, and goes on to the reality of another 
world. So I run joyfully the shining way. Ask me not 
to stop the story of living when it is but just begun. 

4. PreseJit good\s> but partial. Man at his best state 
is altogether vanity. If we stop our being at death, we 
are in a maze. Creation groans for nothing. Men 
labor for nothing. But the very face of our being is 
stamped with the theory of happiness, and it asks for a 
future life for its full development. We may stop at 
every inn on life's changing road ; but the true refreshment 
is not there. No wonder that the atheist is sour and 
morose. No life beyond the present ; no heaven be- 
yond this narrow firmament. Time were indeed a riddle, 
perplexing and awful, if no future let fall its rays upon 
these desolate shores. 

5. Moral providence is but partial here. Vice often 
triumphs here, while virtue is in disgrace. The good 
suffer, the evil feast at ease. What we see needs a future 
to set it right. The present incompleteness is steadily 
moving toward the perfection of eternity. There will be 
the echo of eternal harmonies in the mighty future where 
all apparent irregularities will be corrected, and perfect 
harmony between character and destiny established. 
Piety and philosophy admit the facts of the present, and 
quietly wait for the future. 

We are at best far from the God we adore. Reason 



196 Memorial of 

and science and religion must have a God. We were 
not made to be tyrannized over by sense, or dragged at 
the chariot of self-indulgence. Angelic gifts were not 
bestowed to be hidden in darkness. No : when we rise 
to the true worship of God, our system has a sun, our 
life a meaning, — looking foward to his glorious appear- 
ing who shall subdue all things unto himself 



BENEFITS OF AFFLICTION, ESPECIALLY TO 
A MINISTER. 

A SERMON PREACHED IN WESTFIELD ON HIS RECOVERY 
FROM A VERY SEVERE ILLNESS. 

*' Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the 
Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, who comforteth us 
in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which 
are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are 
comforted of God." — 2 Cor. i. 3, 4. 

There is a wealth of. meaning in this word co7nfort. 
It is' not joy : it admits of grief It permits the tear to 
flow; but it alleviates the bitterness of sorrow, soothes 
the aching heart, and makes the soul calm and serene in 
the weakness and trembling of the flesh. The wounded 
-spirit asks not for joy. Gayety, mirth, and song grate 
on the bleeding heart, and distress the tender strings that 
grief has strained ; but comfort almost renders grief a 
luxury. Now, God is the God of comfort, who comforteth 
his people in their sorrows. The storms will come, and 
he does not withhold them ; but he leads us to the intinite 



Rev. yohn Jennings. 197 

and all-sufficient shelter. He hides us in his pavilion. 
He does not remove the thorn, but gives sufficient grace. 
In the dry and thirsty land, he leads us to the living 
fountain. The sympathy between God's children, par- 
taking of like sufferings and joys, is here presented as a 
Scripture truth. 

I. Personal affliction teaches the value of the gospel. 
The gospel is a source of life and joy. The attractions 
of the world offer no relief from pain, no joy in bereave- 
ment. The house is desolate, though filled with friends, 
when a beloved one has departed. The table is vacant, 
though surrounded with guests, when a prominent seat is 
empty. Such a vacancy the world can never fill. Then 
is the gospel's time ; then the torn heart may be healed 
by the balm of Gilead and the soothing words of the 
great Physician, "whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth.'' 

Affliction will give fervor and unction to the preaching 
of the gospel. It is the preacher's duty to exhibit the 
way of salvation as man's only safety and comfort in this 
vale of tears ; but after a time this may come to be a 
fact, believed indeed, but not felt in its living power. 
Hence he needs trials to give him fresher views of truth, 
to place him on a new point of observation. Let his 
health fail, his friends forsake him or die, and the gospel, 
so rich and glorious in its provisions, will burst upon him 
with the light of a new revelation. 

He has been in the schools of theology ; but, in order 
to be thoroughly furnished, he needs the school of afflic 
tion. Let the lightning of acute pain dart through his 
frame, depriving him of rest, causing him to keep com- 
pany with the stars, and spend the night in longing for 
the world to wake again : then it is that the blessed 
17* 



198 Memorial of 

gospel comes to his aid. He remembers Gethsemane 
and Calvary j and every murmur is hushed in the presence 
of those greater sufferings. From the thought of Him who 
hath trodden the winepress alone, he goes onward to the 
time when there will be " no more pain." His heart is 
subdued, and he is better fitted for his work among the 
sorrowing sons of men as a son of consolation. Yes, to 
value the gospel as we should, we need to feel its power 
in the night of our calamity, leading us, as by a fiery 
pillar, onward and upward, out of this land of shadows 
and disappointments ; and to him who is thus schooled 
the gospel is a mighty force and a strong consolation ; 
and he comes forth from the furnace of affliction to rec- 
ommend his Saviour to his fellow-men as one whose love 
and sympathy is a reality, and, with a softer heart, to go to 
the chamber of sorrow, and to comfort others with the 
same comfort wherewith he himself has been comforted. 

2. Affliction gives a keener perception of truth. It 
fastens certain leading truths upon the mind with added 
strength and beauty and power. Entire dependence 
on God is thus taught as in no other way. AVe have 
it in the Scriptures, it is familiar to our tongue ; but it is 
never impressed as when we lie down on the bed of 
sickness, — the voice silenced, the hand still, the foot for- 
bidden to step, the strength gone. Then we learn that 
it is in him we live and move and have our being. 

The dreadful -certainty of death is especially here 
taught. The house of mourning is a familiar place to 
the minister. He follows all "ages to the tomb, — the 
babe with the flowers of spring upon its breast, the 
mother who cannot be spared, the man of strength, the 
husband, the wife, the father. From the stately mansion 



Rev. John Jennings, 199 

and from the lowest hovel, he follows friend and stranger 
to the grave. All these scenes with aching heart he 
repeats ; but he needs to have them come near to him- 
self, — into his own dwelling, — that he may fully learn 
the art of divine consolation. 

Affliction makes the future more impressive. The im- 
portance of things eternal is the burden of his teaching. 
To lead men to " taste the powers of the world to come " 
is his constant employ ; but affliction will bring these 
things nearer and nearer as a living reality. The effect 
of a full and living perception of truth on the ministra- 
tions of the sanctuary is perfectly obvious. We can 
preach most impressively from our own experience. It 
was the wisdom of God to appoint men to preach his 
gospel who had felt its power. " We speak that we do 
know, and testify that we have seen," is the language 
of the apostolic ministry. " We were eye-witnesses of 
his majesty." It is truth worked into the soul by God's 
discipline which is most effectual. Now, in affliction, 
the servant of Christ comes into closest connection with 
the most important messages he is to bear to his people ; 
and he should come out of the furnace with his heart 
aglow with the truths his people need most to know. 

3. Affliction qualifies the pastor to sympathize with 
the afflicted. This is one great branch of his work. It 
is a useful and tender and delicate field. Sympathy is 
always sweet to the sorrowing. It is pleasant to know 
that those who cannot help can feel for us. The words, 
" My brother, I know what it is " find their way directly 
to the heart. 

He is thus fully prepared for his work. The Spirit 
is the Comforter. The gospel is adapted to every phase 



200 Memorial of 

of life. Its promises and directions are exactly fitted to 
our wants. The sick, the bereaved, the poor, the father- 
less, the widow, each have a chapter and verse. The 
promises are great and precious, whose fulness we can- 
not know till we feel it in our own hearts. The magni- 
tude of grace we cannot know till we are in the very 
situation for which it was recorded. Much of the Bible 
is written for the afflicted. It is a precious oil ; but the 
heart must be bruised before its healing power can be 
fully realized. God sends or permits all sorrow. x\nd 
it shall work for good. 

A special lesson we learn is to take comfort in the 
blessed truth of the soul's immortality. To look into 
the grave without hope, oh, how desolate ! But the gos- 
pel teaches the eternal life and safety of those who trust 
in Jesus, the resurrection and the life. Freighted with 
this burden of consolation, the minister comes to his 
people. And when, in the depths of sorrow, he has 
drunk full draughts of God's living water, he is prepared 
to comfort his people. 

A new leaf has been turned, a new experience en- 
tered upon. Sickness and death is before us all. I 
commend to you all this comfort. 



ADDRESS 



AT THE LAYING OF THE CORNER-STONE OF THE NEW 
CHURCH IN WESTFIELD^ SEPT. 29, 1867. 

As far back as March, 1789, the Baptist Church in 
Westfield voted to purchase half a quarter of an acre of 



Rev. yohn yennings. 201 

land to set a meeting-house on. That stood not far from 
the present county bridge. The second house stood 
near the iron bridge. Aug. 23, 1838, the house of wor- 
ship which the Central Baptist Church and society have 
recently left was dedicated to the service of God, Rev. 
Mr. Turnbull of Hartford preaching the sermon. 

In all ages of the world God has consecrated places 
for his worship. The patriarch Jacob, after his remark- 
able dream at Bethel, took the stone on which his head 
had rested, and, having poured oil upon it, said, " This 
stone which I have set for a pillar shall be God's house : " 
so may we devoutly say, as we lay this stone and erect 
this edifice. Let me speak, for a brief moment, of the 
motives that move us, and the hopes which inspire us, in 
this work. Surveying this delightful spot which a kind 
Providence has enabled us to obtain, I trust that our 
hearts swell with ardent gratitude ; and may we not, with- 
out presumption, inquire, " Is not this the hill which God 
hath chosen to dwell in forever ? " We come not here in 
the spirit of sect. We love our faith, but would promote 
our views of religious truth only by the most generous 
means. We would have no rivalship but in doing good. 

We seek in the erection of this house more ample ac- 
commodations. Our late house is too strait for us and 
those who may worship with us. We would furnish 
room for our share of the strangers which the enterprise 
and growth of this increasing village may bring among 
us. We feel that in this site we are singularly fortunate. 
The ample room afforded, the pleasant location, with 
its proximity to the centre of business, and the increas- 
ingly-important channels of intercourse, — all commend 
it to us as desirable. We feel that in erecting such a 



202 Memorial of 

house as is here to rise, on such a spot as is here se- 
lected, we have some regard — though at heavy expense 
to ourselves — to the best good of this thriving village. 
We mean, not to mar, but mend the landscape. But 
we trust that love to Christ our Master, and love to souls 
for whom he died, is the crown of all our motives. AVe 
would honor him, and do good to our fellow-men. We 
would here, from this favored central spot, fling our ban- 
ner to the breeze, that many, in coming years, when we 
are dead, may here rally under the Captain of our salva- 
tion. We would here set up an altar on which multi- 
tudes may lay the offering of a contrite heart, and be 
blessed. Here would we erect a moral lighthouse, which 
shall dart its cheering beams across the dark sea of 
human life, and save thousands from the shipwreck of 
the soul. 

In our hopes, foremost of all, is the expectation that 
here " we have found out a place for the Lord, an habi- 
tation for the mighty God of Jacob." We fondly hope, 
that from this place shall ascend incense and a pure of- 
fering ; that many on the very ground we now tread will 
find occasion to say, " How dreadful is this place : this is 
none other than the house of God and the gate of 
heaven." Under a consciousness of his presence, we feel 
assured that the gospel will be preached in its simplicity, 
purity, and power, and that, as a consequence, saints will 
be comforted, and advanced in their heavenward journey. 
Here many a weary pilgrim will find edification and rest j 
the bowed-down and afflicted, a sovereign balm for all 
their wounds. We hope that thousands will be born to 
glory here. We would have this a sacred Bethesda, over 
whose healing waters the angel of the divine presence 



Rev, Jo Jul yemiiiigs. 203 

shall continually hover, that whosoever steps in may be 
healed. We come here to seek a place of quiet labor 
for God and souls. We have nothinsf to attack but sin. 
Our hope is in God. Our earnest prayer is, that the 
religious interests of this town may be promoted by the 
work we have here commenced ; that many, treading 
these streets or laboring on the surrounding farms, may 
here find a Saviour and a Friend. And may it not be 
that the stranger, who, from his seat in the passing train, 
casts his eye on the graceful spire which shall here as- 
cend, shall be led to think upon the God whose worship 
it indicates, and thus be better fitted for his distant home, 
or for death, should it overtake him on the track ? Thus 
we hope by this structure to do good to souls, — a good 
which shall last when these stones shall have mouldered 
away, — a good which shall exist 

" A monument above the stars." 

And now, as we lay this stone, let the language of our 
hearts be, " Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and 
thv glorv unto their children. And let the beautv of 
the Lord our God be upon us ; and establish thou the 
work of our hands upon us : yea_, the work of our hands 
establish thou it." 



204 Memorial of 



TO THE BLOOD OF SPRINKLING. 

HIS LAST SERMOX IN WESTF[ELD, BEING THE LAST OF 
A SERIES OF SERMONS ON HEB. xii. 22-24. 

''And to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than 

that of Abel." 

The apostle here arrives at the climax of his rapturous 
enumeration of the attractions of our worship, clustering 
together the objects of intense interest in the Christian's 
approach to God. He comes out from the contrasting 
shadows and terrors of Sinai into the milder light of 
Calvary. He bids us not to approach, at the peril of life, 
the terrible mount, but to come to the Mount Zion, and 
to the blessed company there, and to the persuasive 
pleadings of the glorious Mediator ; not to the blood 
of Abel, crying for vengeance, but to the rich, peace-giv- 
ing fountain of the blood of sprinkling. Here is the 
crown of this passage. Nothing avails till the pure fount 
of Jesus' blood is unsealed. No voice is heard till " the 
blood of sprinkling " speaks. No argument prevails till 
Jesus shows his wounds. No remission is granted till 
the blood of the slain Lamb cries out, " Father, I have 
died." Here is the rock on which your hope and mine 
is built. Our life comes from his death. Our pardon is 
pronounced by his flowing blood. It has a voice. In 
the text is one of the most striking instances where a 
voice is given to an inanimate object. This is 

I. A voice of sacrifice. Early in the history of the 
race, probably by intimation or express command of 
God, sacrifices were offered. The slaying of animals 



Rev. yohn yennings. 205 

was thus earlv re2:arded as a kind of atonement for sin. 
The fruits of the land and the firstlings of the flock 
were offered to God in thanksgiving. Through the his- 
tory of the Jewish Church, the altars smoked with their 
consuming victims, every one of which told of the " blood 
of sprinkling," which was to be shed when the fulness 
of time should come. And since that blood was shed, 
prayers and the other acts of worship are spoken of as 
the sacrifice or offering of the devout and penitent wor- 
shipper. But the word, as applied to Christ's atonement 
and propitiation^ has a volume of import. Here is the 
spotless, perfect Lamb from the Father's bosom. The 
offering, how complete ! It speaks of love beyond de- 
gree, embodying all the Father's compassion and the 
Son's wealth of tenderness. And then it is the culmina- 
tion of the history of sacrifices. In this great Sacrifice, 
offered once for all, is enfolded each page of the sac- 
rifices of the past, and, as we approach and unroll the 
volume, we see the sacrifice of Abel and Enoch and 
Moses, Abraham and Joshua and Elijah, — • in a word, all 
the sacrifices of the past, collected^ fulfilled, beautified, 
magnified, and glorified. • And thus they all become hal- 
lowed, as a part of the great Atonement. Here are 
engraven the sighs and tears of the pious Jew, as he 
came up yearly to lay on the altar his choicest gift, whose 
voice reached its blessed echo down to Calvary, and 
fixed his heart on Him who was to come and redeem 
Israel. And here, amid the myriad tones which issue 
from the cross of Jesus, — in the gallery of echoing 
voices sounding here, — is found a note for you and me, 
— for all the Church on earth and in heaven. And 
these voices will echo as long as there is a soul to be saved. 

k8 



2o6 Memorial of 

2. This blood speaks of justice. 

Divine justice here receives a completer, clearer 
vindication than in all other forms combined. The very 
idea of sacrifice supposes an offended justice to be ap- 
peased. The death of Christ speaks for the divinity and 
integrity of justice with most commanding power. In 
every drop of the fountain then opened, justice is vindi- 
cated. Now, God can be just, and the justifier of him 
that believeth. The blood of Abel cried for vengeance ; 
but here justice obtains satisfaction ; so that, in placing 
the believer beyond the condemnatory power of the law, 
there is no violation of this attribute. Not one in all 
the universe can complain of. the salvation of the veriest 
outcast through such a medium. Yea, justice pointing 
to its almighty Victim, exults in its more than satisfaction. 
Not at the expense of justice does the worst of sinners 
live redeemed and live forevermore. 

Wherever, then, and whenever this blood of sprinkling 
speaks, it speaks of a glorified justice losing its severer 
tones in the melting voice of Calvary. A strong and 
most comfortable element of our salvation is its justice. 
What a wave of exultant joy must roll over the hearts 
of the redeemed at the thought that they have a " right 
to the tree of life " ! 

3. But more than all, and over all, here is the voice of 
mercy. The blood of sprinkling expresses the divine 
compassion in the salvation of the sinner. Divine love 
moves like a mighty current. Is the offence unprovoked 
and unreasonable ? yet Mercy says, Forgive. Is the sinner 
an enemy, yet for such the Saviour died. It stoops to 
his degradation, it penetrates his darkness, it suffers his 
stupidity, it weeps at his woe. 



Rev. yohn yearnings. 207 

Bearing the blood of the atoning Lamb, the Church 
goes forth on her glorious and merciful mission to a lost 
world. Monuments of mercy stand on every hand. " By 
the grace of God I am what I am," says Paul. " 'Tis grace 
abounding," says Bunyan. That we may find mercy of 
the Lord in that day, is all our hope. We are sinful, and 
God is merciful, says the blood of sprinkling; and this is 
our simplest theology. And how our views simplify as 
we approach the other land ! Said one of our honored 
countrymen, who died a few months since, " The simple 
facts of the gospel are the foundation of my hope. I 
have tried to study the mysteries of religion. I have 
endeavored to trace the arguments, and fathom the mean- 
ing, of the writings of Paul. But when I think of myself, 
a sinner before God, and look forward to death, the 
judgment, and eternity, I forget these deep things of 
God. Faith clings to one precious truth, — Jesus loved 
me and died for me." 

Thus mercy becomes our simple plea. So has mercy 
carried out the glorious plan of man's redemption. 

Reumrk i. Let us draw nigh to God with confidence, 
and listen to that voice which brings us pardon and life 
eternal. To all who come, it speaks ; and whosoever 
will may come. 

2. How honorable is the great company in which we 
worship ! 

3. And how full the provision for all our needs ! Let 
us, then, be encouraged to come. While the voice of the 
Mediator himself invites us, how can we stay away t 



2o8 Memorial of 



THE CORN OF WHEAT. 

ITHE LAST SERMON PREACHED IN WORCESTER, ON THE 
•LAST SABBATH BUT ONE OF HIS EARTHLY MINISTRY. 

"Verily, verily I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the 
ground and die, it abideth alone ; but, if it die, it bringeth forth 
much fruit." — John xii. 24. 

Here is one of the most animating and vital truths of 
the gospel, presented by the Saviour in the most striking 
and beautiful symbolic imagery. The time was at hand 
when his death on the cross was to gain the life of men. 
The great process of life from death, which is seen 
everywhere in nature, was then to assume a new and 
glorious form. The precious corn of wheat which fell 
into Joseph's new tomb began a work of decay and ren- 
ovation which shall never cease till the innumerable 
company are gathered from the corruption of sin and 
the grave to the glorious life which fills heaven forever- 
more. 

The Saviour offers this glorious truth as a source of 
comfort to his disciples, from whom, in the completion 
of his wondrous plan, he is soon to be removed in a way 
^wholly unrevealed to them. They had not the faintest 
'Conception of the humiliation or the glory which was 
approaching for him. How startling must have been 
ihis announcement in the verse preceding my text ! The 
people had collected in great numbers to see the mira- 
cles he wrought. His disciples were repeating the ac- 
count of his mighty acts to one another, when certain 
Greeks who had come up to the feast said, " Sirs, we 



Rev. yohn yennings. 209 

would see Jesus." " And Jesus answered them, saying, 
The hour is come that the Son of man should be glori- 
fied." He then lays down the great principle of the 
text, which contains in itself the doctrine of redemption, 
— of life by death. We consider 

I. The picture. It is that of a grain of wheat falling 
into the ground, in which are the elements, which, aided 
by rain and sunshine, induce its decay and dissolution, 
or rather its separation into such forms as will greatly 
multiply the life which is in it, and bring it forth in the 
beauty and abundance of the waving harvest. Every 
spring makes us familiar with this picture, and every 
summer and autumn makes glad our gardens and fields 
. and storehouses with these grand and beautiful develop- 
ments. The flower, so graceful and gladsome, is born 
from some dissolving seed, or from some uncouth bulb. 
The fruit which delights your taste is the product of 
the same process, developing life from death, beauty and 
health from decay and waste. 

Three prominent facts must be found in this picture : 
I. There must be vitality in the seed. 2. It must fall 
into appropriate soil. 3. It must be aided by the proper 
conditions of warmth and moisture. 

I. Vitality. Every corn of wheat that grows and mul- 
tiplies, and comes to the harvest, has the life in it ; so 
that, sowing wheat, we expect to reap wheat, and so of 
all other grain. And not only must it be alive, but of 
good quality. The careful husbandman selects the best 
seed of its kind. Glance from the mere seed in your hand 
to the blade of corn, and onward to the waving harvest, 
to the beautiful flower, or to the perfected fruit of the 
orchard, — and how full of instruction is the whole 
18* 



^10 Memorial of 

process! So is it in all God's works. We have the 
most wondrous results from what seem the most incon- 
siderable means. And we feel the subtle interest which 
everywhere attaches to life, from that of the seed to that 
of the saint or angel. 

2. As a second invariable fact, the seed abideth 
al,one, unless it fall into z. fruitful soil. The hard rock, 
the trodden wayside, the clustering thorns, are no 
suitable place for the seed to fall. But the prepared soil 
of the garden or the field embraces the seed, and the 
new life begins at once. Still further, there must not 
only be life and the prepared soil, but warmth and jnois- 
tiire and light. The best seed will be unfruitful, unless 
the sun lend its genial heat, and the rain and dew soften 
and expand the seed, and draw forth its life. With these 
indispensable conditions, the glowing picture of our text 
will be realized, and be a fitting representation of the 
sublime truth here taught us. 

II. Let us look at the lesson. It is, in a word, the 
transforming influence of the gospel, shown in the hu- 
miliation and death and the glorious life of the Saviour 
of men, and through him of all his chosen people. How 
is the great truth here taught and enforced of life out of. 
death, of joy out of sorrow ] 

The text is illustrated in each and all of Christ's dis- 
•ciples. The grace of God in the heart furnishes all the 
^elements of fruitfulness, and impels to active duty and 
self-denying toil for our felJow-men. 

The life is there which God gives to the regenerate 
soul, — life of the divinest type, which comes from the 
•^cross of atonement. As the vital element in the seed 
«cannot be passive, so love of Christ constrains us to ask, 



Rev, yokn J^ennrngs, 2 1 1 

I. 

*' Lord, what wilt thou have me to do ? " As there is 
life in every corn of wheat, so in every believer there 
is life, which will multiply itself in souls redeemed and 
sins forgiven. 

The soil of the 4ieart is fitted by grace for the recep- 
tion of the love of Christ, just as the prepared soil waits 
for the seed, that it may enfold it, and increase its life. 
The vital spark of true conversion is fanned by the 
divine breath of the Spirit, and nurtured by the means 
of grace, until it becomes a power for good, and a glori- 
ous harvest of souls is the result. This process, con- 
stantly going on, can only be revealed in the harvest of 
eternity. Every throb of suffering, every stroke of pain- 
ful toil, looks to this glorious end. . . . 



CHRIST THE WAY. 

THE LAST SERMON PREACHED IN GRAFTON, MARCH 26, 

1871. 

" I am the Way." — John xiv. 6. 

This familiar term " way " has a wide meaning. We 
are understood when we say this is the way to the city, 
or this is the way to honor, riches, happiness, or this is 
the way to heaven or hell. Here the wide extremes 
meet. It is of little importance that we take the right 
way to the next town, or to present good ; but it is of 
unspeakable consequence that our souls take the right 
way. 

Life is often presented as a journey or a way ; and 
thus it assumes an importance of which we can at best 



2 12 Memorial of 

have but a feeble conception. " I'm but a traveller here," 
it is easy to admit ; but it is another thing to feel the 
import of the admission. 

Even careless and worldly men speak of the rapidity 
of time and the shortness of life ; but how few of us 
feel the vast interest attached to every step of our brief 
earthly pilgrimage, when viewed as connected insepar- 
ably and accountably with the vast eternity before us ! 

How important that each step of this way should be 
measured by its effect on the end, involving the weal or 
woe of a future unending life! Well, amid every lo, 
here 1 or lo, there ! how delightful is it to hear the infalli- 
ble Guide saying to us, " I am the Way." 

I. Christ is the entrance to the way. '"' I am the 
door: by me, if any man enter in, he shall be saved." 
The Christian's way, be it longer or shorter, 'has its 
" wicket gate " and its " celestial city." No one can 
enter heaven but by the door of sound and rational con- 
version. This is the acceptance of Christ as a personal 
Saviour. From this acceptance we may see the steps of 
the Christian life, one after the other, up the shining way, 
till at length heaven shall open its glorious portals, and 
the innumerable throng shall welcome the sinner to the 
presence of God, the Judge of all, and of Jesus, the Medi- 
ator. Through eternal ages shall stand the truth, " I am 
the AVay." Who of us does not feel the great impor- 
tance of beginnings ? How many are ready to bless God 
that they began the Christian life ? And this rejoicing 
shall go on until the " day by day " in which that first 
solemn vow is renewed and the day when we are crowned 
his in glory are met. 

" Till in life's latest hour I bow, 

And bless in death a bond so dear." 



Rev, yohn Jennings. 2 1 3 

2. The preparation of the way is Christ. In the ear 
of every anxious sinner, Christ whispers in accents of 
peace and love, " Come hither, soul : I am the Way." 
The prophet Isaiah has beautifully represented the high- 
way of holiness, in which the redeemed shall walk (Isa. 

XXXV.). 

All this, and even more, is found in Christ by those 
who come to him and go with him. Every preparation 
for the comfort of his children is made by him, and to 
him they repair. At every doubtful turn he is present, 
and we have only to look to him. No matter how many 
are the other ways, — how many and who travel in them : 
if Christ be not there, it is not the way^ as we shall find 
to our sorrow. Christ has laid out the way, and we 
need not err. 

3. He is the defence of the way. Life itself is a strug- 
gle, the Christian life especially so, with foes without and 
within. At every point there are sleepless and powerful 
enemies. Against all the dangers and disabilities of the 
way, he can defend us. Do we lack strength ? his 
arm is extended for our aid. He is the shadow of a 
great rock in a weary land, the river in the desert, the 
covert from the tempest, the stronger than the strong 
man armed. He guards every step of the way, from the 
day of espousals till, under the shield of his mighty 
presence, all the sons of Zion enter into the blessed land. 
Down to the cold river sometimes the enemies will fol- 
low. But though the waves roll and the sea is rough, 
yet his commanding word is there : " It is I : be not 
afraid," " Peace, be still." 

4. He is the at/?'action of the way. Yes : I mean it, — 
the way is attractive. We hear that the world esteems 



2 14 • Memorial of 

it a gloomy way j but never was a greater mistake. It is 
the way to liappiness and God. The attractions thicken 
at every step of the faithful. There are many elements 
which make up its pleasures. 

It is the right way, and who can be happy in the 
wrong road ? The fact that this is the way makes up a 
sum of pleasure. 

It is the safe way. It lies along the pleasant country 
of God's covenant mercies ; and every day adds some 
new scene on which the eye may fix and feast. The 
varying shades of Christian experience are replete with 
interest, as they show the fulness of the Saviour to meet 
the wants of his children. They lean on his arm, rest 
in his smile, trust in his promise, and sing of his love. 
In proportion as we live in him, do our pleasures increase. 
The ordinances and sacred worship of his Church are 
full of attraction and delight to the soul that trusts in 
him. If communion with excellence is a pleasure, here 
it is found in all its perfection. 

The changes of the way are pleasant, its duties done 
are a delight, its trials have a relief, its conflicts a 
victory. He is the way : by him, through him, and in 
him, all his people may live and rejoice and be glad. 
Thus heaven is begun below, and Zion begins her glori- 
ous song on earth, which she is to sing forever, " unto 
Him that loved us," &c. 

5. He is the e?id of the way. There is great interest 
in the last scene in the life of Bunyan's Pilgrim, — the 
dipping of the weary feet in the cold, dark river ; the 
gradual increase of the struggling waters ; the mortal fear 
that comes over the spirit ; the gracious support ; the ap- 
pearance of the shining ones on the other side ; the ut- 



Rev. yohn ye7inings, 215 

terance of the great promises, the response of the soul, 
" Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of 
death, I will fear no evil ; for thou art with me : thy rod 
and thy staff they comfort me." 

Such is the scene when every true Christian dies. He 
who has lived in Christ, and walked in him all the way, 
will find him at the journey's end. 



HE CARETH FOR US. 

A SERMON BEGUN IN AUBURNDALE, JAN. II, 1871. 

" Casting all your care upon him ; for he careth for you." — 

I Peter v. 7. 

The doctrine of a divine and watchful Providence, 
careful and kind by day and sleepless by night, is a 
source of unfailing delight to every believing, trusting 
heart. To feel assured that God's watchful eye is ever 
upon us, guiding our steps, and preserving our slumbers, 
is enough to lift us above the trifles of life and even the 
fear of death. Our text occurs in an exhortation of the 
Apostle Peter to his brethren. He styles himself "an 
elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a 
partaker of the glory that shall be revealed." He ex- 
horts to the care of the flock of God, not from earthly 
motives, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, set- 
ting a holy and blameless example. Then the promise 
of the crown of glory, when the chief Shepherd shall 
appear, is made. He then urges to a consistent walk, 
the younger submitting to the elder, and all being sub- 
ject one to another. And then to all he says, " Humble 



2i6 Rev. yohn Jennings. 

yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that 
he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care 
upon him, for he careth for you." These are compre- 
hensive words, including all that can be implied in filial 
trust in God. Let us consider the fact that he 
careth for us, and what it implies. It is a comforting 
and glorious fact. The term indicates all that we may 
desire in the providential and spiritual interest of our 
heavenly Father for us. His eye is upon us, and his 
hand is under and around us, by day and by night, — in 
the house and by the way, on the land and on the sea. 
This implies his constant protectioji. Such are the scrip- 
tural representations, " The angel of the Lord encampeth 
round about them that fear him, and delivereth them." 
" The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his 
ears are open to their cry." The tender and intimate 
relations of God to his people, as a Father, and as a 
Shepherd, his power and grace manifested to all in time 
of need, are matters of record and inspired teaching. 

Not a sparrow falls to the ground without his notice, 
and "the very hairs of your head are all numbered." 
All life is in his keeping, from its lowliest forms up to its 
highest development. The insect and the angel have 
God as, their protector. Man, in all his walks and jour- 
neyings, has almighty aid to uphold him. God holds 
the sea in the hollow of his hand, that man may traverse 
its bosom safely. Thus God careth for all his physical 
creation with a minuteness that includes the smallest 
want, and a comprehensiveness that embraces all the 
worlds, in their orbit. . . . 



PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS OF MY 
FATHER. 

BY ALICE C. JENNINGS. 

For twenty years the love and care of my dear father 
have twined their tendrils firmly and strongly around my 
life ; and now that the tie has been sundered, and every 
nerve still quivers with the blow, a host of tender rec- 
ollections remain to temper its force, — recollections- 
which are a// tender, and in which no jarring note min- 
gles. 

Few, very few, are blessed with such a father, — one 
who makes the joy or the pain of his child so entirely his 
own, and whose fatherly love is so hallowed and purified 
by a love which is divine. 

The remembrance of his unwearied attentions during 
the long illness which cast so thick a veil over my future 
life is very precious to me. Amid the pressure of pas- 
toral duties he never for^^ot his suffering child, but found 
time each day to print a tiny epistle for her to read her- 
self These little letters are still preserved, filled with 
such expressions, as, " Papa is tired, but must write a 
word to his precious sick child ; " " The Lord heal my little 
daughter," and similar sentences. His ardent wish that 
I might be restored to health was tempered always by a 
spirit of perfect submission. " How I wish I could 
have you and dear Alice here ! " he wrote to my mother. 
"But stop: I must not murmur; I will not." Though 
the strong chains of pastoral duty bound him to. his post 
when no immediate danger threatened, yet we felt that 
his heart was with us. " I can work, and do any thing," 
19 



2i8 Memorial of 

he again writes to my mother, who was to both of us a 
second self, "if you and dear Alice are well ; but, if you- 
are sick, I must be with you." And when the weary weeks 
of convalescence at last ended, and a new and changed 
life was commenced, my father sought by a thousand 
fond devices, which only his loving heart could plan, 
to make the transition from a joyous, happy life, to one 
of silence and suffering, less painful. I had but to name, 
a wish in order to find it gratified, but to give a sign of 
pain in order to receive a wealth of sympathy. Subject 
to frequent paroxysms of the severest suffering, I made 
many demands on that sympathy. During one of these 
attacks, he was compelled to leave for a distant city, 
parting from me most reluctantly. Early the next morn- 
ing came a pencilled note, written in the cars, and saying, 
" I have thought all day of your suffering. Wish I could 
bear the pain for you ! " 

But higher and holier sympathy than this was ours ; for 
the Christian faith and hope just beginning to dawn in 
my heart was nourished by no hand so much as by his. 
And when, five years afterward, the same gentle hand 
raised me from the baptismal waters, and I looked into 
his almost transfigured face, I felt that a tie stronger than 
death had now united us. 

As I grew older, and could appreciate his sermons, 
he would often playfully call me to the study to look at 
them. Though that pleasant voice I can so well re- 
member was never again to greet my ears, yet, when 
preaching, so expressive was his face, so full of meaning 
were his gestures, that I could often follow him closely. 
He was in the habit of giving me a list of the hymns, 
text, &c., for the day, that I might, as far as possible, 



Rev. yohn yennings, 2 1 9 

understand the service ; and this he never forgot, how- 
ever hurried he might be on sabbath morning. 

This thoughtfuhiess was to me his prominent charac- 
teristic. It ran hke a golden thread through every web 
of duty, and showed itself in the comparatively uninter- 
estins: details of dailv life. Circumstances brought us 
more together, especially during our residence in West- 
field, than is usual with father and daughter. His 
companion at meetings and lectures, and in calls upon 
the sick, I learned the power of " the victory that over- 
cometh the world, even our -faith," and saw, as perhaps 
few others could see, how truly he was a comforter to 
those in sorrow. 

For my mother and myself his devotion was unfailing. 
No fatigue or weakness on his part could chill the 
warmth of his welcome, or deprive us of the loving in- 
quiry for our welfare, which, down to the last day of his 
life, he always made. 

All my little achievements in housewifery or in study 
he would notice and praise ; and, when my health at last 
permitted me to enjoy school-life, he took intense interest 
in my progress. When I left in the morning for the city, 
ten miles distant, his " God bless you, darling ! " would 
follow me all day ; and, when I returned at night, I never 
missed his loving face at window or door. A happier 
trio than our family at this time, it would be difficult to 
find. We were mutually dependent and mutually happy, 
striving to lighten each other's burdens to the greatest 
possible extent. And of all this my father was the life 
and soul. 

His letters to us, when absent, were frequent, and full 
of loving thoughtfulness. In his last letter to me (written 



2 20 Rev, yohn Jennings. 

nearly a year before he died, from Baldwinville), there is 
a passage most appropriate and comforting. Alluding to 
some affectionate remark I had made, he says, " I thank 
you for your expressions of love ; but it is delightful to 
feel that you have a still stronger love to your heavenly 
Father. He will be with you when I cannot." 

During his last illness, he would frequently ask for me. 
When I sat beside him, while my mother, who scarcely 
left his side, took a few moments of rest, he would gaze 
into my face with a look of wistful tenderness, and hold 
my hand in a close warm pressure, which said far more 
than the words he knew I could not hear. 

His love to my mother was most ardent ; and they ex- 
emplified most truly the beauty of a faithful, devoted life, 
which knows nothing unshared by the other. 

His last kiss was pressed upon her lips ; and almost 
his last words were spoken to her. " I have nothing to 
forgive," said he, — " nothing to forgive. You have been 
every thing to me 1 " And so he passed peacefully to his 
rest, leaving us a rich garland of precious memories to 
bind about his tomb. 



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